Revised OECD guidelines
The OECD Council of Ministers approved the revised guidelines for multinational enterprises at the end of May - homework for Switzerland.
One good thing is that the guidelines now contain a new chapter on human rights that encompasses suppliers and subcontractors as well. A majority of OECD states including Switzerland have nevertheless refused to reinforce the National Contact Points (NCPs), which are responsible for implementing the guidelines. Yet the NCPs are being required to be transparent and balanced in their operations so as to win the confidence of social partners and NGOs. The Swiss National Contact Point, which is attached to business-friendly Seco, does not measure up. Similar to other countries (UK, Netherlands), its membership should be expanded to include other federal offices (Political Affairs Division IV of the FDFA, SDC) and interested civil society organisations. The contact point would also need more resources to be able mediate effectively.
Michel Egger, Alliance Sud
Published in: Alliance Sud News No. 68 - Summer 2011
