Corporate social responsibility in Burma/Myanmar

28.9.2012

Question for written answer P-008754/2012
to the Commission
Rule 117
Richard Howitt (S&D)

The Commission communication entitled ‘A renewed EU strategy 2011-14 for Corporate Social Responsibility’ (COM(2011)0681) states that all European enterprises are expected to meet the corporate responsibility to respect human rights, as defined in the UN Guiding Principles. The EU Strategic Framework on Human Rights and Democracy (11855/12) also commits the EU to working to contribute to the implementation of the UN Guiding Principles on business and human rights.

The High Representative and the Trade Commissioner stated on 15 June 2012 that ‘responsible investment and bilateral trade [are] crucial elements for helping the country [Burma/Myanmar] recover and flourish’.

In light of these commitments:

What has the Commission done, in concrete terms, to give effect to the stated commitments to promote human and labour rights and the highest standards of corporate social responsibility amongst European companies seeking to do business in Burma/Myanmar?

How will the Commission ensure and monitor that EU companies with business relationships in Burma/Myanmar carry out their activities in line with the UN Guiding Principles?

It is imperative to ensure that new investment does not perpetuate existing inequities, but instead provides equal opportunity for all. Will the Commission ensure that EU businesses planning to invest conduct initial human rights impact assessments and ongoing due diligence in line with the UN Guiding Principles, consulting local and international civil society, academia, officials and independent experts?

OJ C 287 E, 03/10/2013