Many companies are investing in a better future for everyone. They are tackling the climate crisis, examining supply chains to identify forced labor, and breaking ties with those who violate human rights.
The U.S. State Department is updating the U.S. National Action Plan on Responsible Business Conduct. People from around the world can submit their suggestions until May 31. First published in December 2016, the Action Plan outlines ways the U.S. government encourages American companies to behave responsibly abroad.
The Action Plan reflects the U.S. government’s long-standing support for international principles of responsible business conduct, as described in the Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises on Responsible Business Conduct*, developed by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, and in the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights*.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced plans to update the Action Plan on June 16, 2021, as part of a government effort to improve and expand efforts aimed at promoting responsible business practices.
“Companies can provide crucial support for democratic principles, including respect for human and labor rights. They have the capacity to help shape society and the environment — raising local wages, improving working conditions, building trust with communities, and operating sustainably,” Blinken said at the time*. “As a result, companies play a key role in combating human rights violations, including throughout their supply chains.”
Consumers Demand Action
Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, Jose Fernandez, states that consumers increasingly demand that products go through responsible supply chains. He also said that the U.S. government is committed to supporting responsible business practices.
“I value the focus on the need for companies to act responsibly in all their operations and practices,” Fernandez said in a post on an article from December 1, 2021*. “Companies can thrive by doing good.”
The fundamental principles of responsible business include:
• Emphasizing the positive contributions that companies can make to economic, environmental, and social progress.
• Committing to robust due diligence efforts that identify and mitigate adverse impacts of business conduct and repair violations.
• Ensuring that companies are aware of legal obligations and act in accordance with them within and outside their supply chains.
The update is one of many ways the U.S. government encourages companies to act responsibly. Since 1999, the State Department’s Corporate Excellence Award* has recognized American companies that do a good job abroad, including those improving farmers’ yields, promoting gender equity, and addressing the climate crisis.
To provide suggestions for the update of the U.S. National Action Plan on Responsible Business Conduct, visit the U.S. Federal Register* website.
Source: share.america.gov