What is the situation in non-adhering countries?
The 2000 Review of the Guidelines recommends observance of the Guidelines by enterprises wherever they operate, and not only in the OECD area. Hence, the Council Decision and Procedural Guidance also provide for implementation of the Guidelines in non-Adhering countries. For instance, with regard to information and promotion, National Contact Points are expected to respond to enquiries from governments of non-Adhering countries. In the case of specific instances arising in non-Adhering countries, the 2000 Review recognises that effective implementation of the Guidelines in such circumstances may be more difficult. Nonetheless, National Contact Points are encouraged to take steps in order to develop an understanding of the issues at stake, for instance through contacts with the management of the firm in the home country or with government officials in the non-Adhering country.
