Implementing Action

Back International Responsible Business Conduct (IRBC) Agreements

In 2014, the Social and Economic Council of the Netherlands (SER) recommended concluding multistakeholder agreements promoting international responsible business conduct (IRBC agreements) in each sector.

Businesses that sign IRBC agreements work with Government, unions and NGOs to prevent abuses.

In the agreement, the parties identify the problems that arise in the sector. They then describe how they intend to prevent abuses, and what each of the parties will do to work towards that aim. The organisations and businesses that sign the agreement commit to complying with these arrangements.

The agreements are concluded sector by sector, with the partners developing long-term strategies to tackle complex problems together.

IRBC are voluntary agreements, but they involve a firm commitment on the part of the partners. Sectors are themselves initiating negotiations with NGOs, unions and the Government; and are generating broad support for the agreements.

Agreements have already been concluded in various sectors, such as garments and textile, gold, and banking, and more are currently being negotiated. 

View more on the IRBC Agreements

Netherlands 2014
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