The OECD Guidelines comprise recommendations addressed to business enterprises regarding responsible business conduct across a range of topics relevant to sustainability. Countries adhering to the Guidelines are required to establish National Contact Points (NCPs) to promote and further the effectiveness of the Guidelines, including by resolving complaints regarding the conduct of individual enterprises. The number of complaints submitted to NCPs has steadily increased since the process was introduced in 2000.
The Guidelines were first adopted in 1976 and most recently revised in 2011 when a Chapter on Human Rights was added to the Guidelines recommending, amongst other things, that business enterprises should adopt a policy commitment to respect human rights and should carry out human rights due diligence. The Guidelines adopt a risk-based due diligence model drawing on the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and apply due diligence recommendations to other facets of business conduct, including in relation to the environment and labour rights. Further revisions to the Guidelines are expected to be confirmed at OECD ministerial meetings taking place this month.
This lunchtime seminar is intended to provide a high-level introduction to the Guidelines, including the expected revisions and the NCP process. The panel will also discuss how the Guidelines are relevant to the development and implementation of mandatory sustainability and human rights due diligence regulations.
This seminar is open to members of the BHRLA and non-members. Spaces are limited so please RSVP via this link here as soon as possible indicating if you would like to join us in person or online. Please also indicate if you are a BHRLA member, and include your full name, affiliation, position and whether you have any dietary or access requirements Herbert Smith Freehills should be made aware of.
This is a hybrid event. Join us in person for a sandwich lunch and networking opportunities or virtually.
Date - Monday 19 June
Time - 12:30 – 13:30 BST
Venue - Herbert Smith Freehills LLP, Exchange House, Primrose Street, London, EC2A 2EG or Online
Chair:
Rae Lindsay Partner, Clifford Chance and Co-Chair of the BHRLA
Panel speakers:
Nicola Bonucci Partner, Paul Hastings and former OECD Director of Legal Affairs
Antony Crockett Partner, Herbert Smith Freehills
Martijn Scheltema Partner, Pels Rijcken