Programme NCP Annual event

Opening
Welcome remarks by Esther van Rijswijk, event moderator, and Catelene Passchier, chair of the OECD National Contact Point (NCP) for Responsible Business Conduct.

The OECD National Contact Point: what and why?

An introduction to the NCP's grievance mechanism, including examples of notifications previously submitted by NGOs or trade unions about companies or financial institutions. The session will also explain how these procedures work in practice.

By Rutger Goethart, independent NCP member

Doing business in conflict-affected and high-risk areas: what is expected of companies?

In some regions, business activities can pose greater risks for the local context or in the supply chain, for example, due to an increased likelihood of forced labor, environmental pollution, or armed conflict. The OECD and UNDP provide additional guidance for companies operating in such contexts.

In this session, led by speakers from the OECD and UNDP, the following topics will be discussed:
• What do the OECD Guidelines and UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights expect from companies operating in conflict-affected and high-risk areas?
• What does European legislation say about this?
• What should companies know about international humanitarian law?
• What steps are involved in ‘enhanced due diligence’?

The OECD and UNDP will guide you through it!

By Benjamin Katz, OECD Centre for RBC, and Siniša Milatovic, UNDP

In practice: how do companies implement enhanced due diligence expectations?  

Two experts share how they have applied international guidelines and legislation to the realities of doing business in conflict-affected areas. They will walk through the steps required for a robust enhanced due diligence process and discuss common dilemmas.

How can companies determine whether they are operating in a high-risk area? What information sources can be trusted? And how can they balance positive impacts, such as job creation, with the need to mitigate negative consequences?

By Josie Lianna Kaye, CEO Trustworks Global, and Obbe Siderius, former Heineken Global Director Business Conduct

Break with coffee and tea

Panel discussion: Responsible Disengagement

Sometimes risks can no longer be managed. A company may then decide to terminate a contract with a supplier, close a factory or production line, or withdraw from a country altogether. The OECD Guidelines also offer guidance on disengagement, and examples of good practice exist. 

In this panel, experts from business, civil society and labour movement will share their perspectives.

Closing remarks