Global Business Ethics: Regulation, Code, or Self-Restraint

Abstract

Abstract: Three strategies for developing just and consistent global business practices are examined: 1) international treaties and agreements, 2) global codes of business conduct, and 3) voluntary self-restraint. International agreements investigated are: NAFTA, Global Warming Treaty, OECD Anti-Bribery Treaty and Infant Formula Agreement. The codes examined are the Caux Round Table’s Principles for Business, The Global Sullivan Principles and The United Nations Global Compact with Business . Each of these three strategies is probed for its relative strengths and weaknesses, and its prospects for developing ethical business practices—especially in the areas of improving the environment, human rights and working conditions.