Number: RS20803
Title: Codes of Conduct for Multinational Corporations: An Overview
Authors: James K. Jackson, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: The U.S. economy is growing increasingly interconnected with other economies around the world, a phenomenon often referred to as globalization. As U.S. businesses expand globally, however, various groups across the social and economic spectrum are growing concerned over the economic, social, and political impact of this activity. Over the past 15 years, multinational corporations and nations have adopted voluntary, legally enforceable, and industry-specific codes of conduct to address many of these concerns. Congress will continue to play a pivotal role in addressing the large number of issues regarding internationally applied corporate codes of conduct that remain to be negotiated.
Pages: 6
Date: January 30, 2008