Annual Report on the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises 2009. Consumer Empowerment

This edition focuses on consumer empowerment and responsible business conduct, notably the positive impact responsible consumers can exercise on international business behaviour through their purchasing decisions and OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises’ role in promoting and protecting consumer interests.
Special attention is given to supply chains, financial institutions and climate change.

This Annual Report provides an account of the actions taken by the 41 adhering governments over the 12 months to June 2009 to enhance the contribution of the Guidelines to the improved functioning of the global economy. In nine years, the Guidelines have consolidated their position as one of the world's principal corporate responsibility instruments



The Guidelines are recommendations to international business for conduct in such areas as labour, environment, consumer protection and the fight against corruption. The recommendations are made by the adhering governments and, although not binding, governments are committed to promoting their observance.
Table of Contents
Foreword
Chapter 1. Guidelines implementation
1. Report by the Chair on the 2008-2009 Activities of the National Contact Points
2. Statements Released by National Contact Points
3. Specific Instances Considered by National Contact Points to Date.
4. Structure of the National Contact Points
5. Contributions by Business, Trade Unions and Non-Governmental Organisations
6. Contribution by Practitioners on the Application of the Guidelines in the Financial Sector
Notes
Annex 1.A1. Letter to the OECD by the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region
Chapter 2. Consumer Empowerment and Responsible Business Conduct
1. Acknowledgements
2. Key Findings from the Annual OECD Roundtable on Corporate Responsibility
3. The Role of Consumers and Corporations in Tackling Climate Change
Notes
References
4. Private Sector Contributions to a Low Carbon Future:
A Review of Responsible Business Practices and Initiatives
Notes
References.
Appendix A. Declaration on International Investment and Multinational Enterprises
Appendix B. The OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises: Text and Implementation Procedures
Appendix C. Background – The Role of the National Contact Points in the Implementation of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises
Appendix D. Contact Details for National Contact Points