Responsible Business Conduct
Advancing economic progress through decent work and sustainable practices.
Why RBC Matters
Businesses play a vital role in economic and social development through job creation, skills development, and technology. However, business activities can also have adverse impacts on people, the environment, and society.
By integrating principles of Responsible Business Conduct (RBC), enterprises can maximize their positive contribution to progress while minimizing operational risks.
Key International Frameworks
Three international instruments serve as the global standard for responsible business:
ILO MNE Declaration
The ILO Tripartite Declaration of Principles concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy.
OECD Guidelines
The OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises on Responsible Business Conduct.
UN Guiding Principles
The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
These three instruments are aligned in their approach and complement each other to support businesses in implementing responsible practices.
BEF’s Role in RBC
The Bangladesh Employers’ Federation (BEF) encourages businesses of all sizes to align their operations with international labour standards. With the rise of human rights due diligence laws globally, compliance is essential for trading partners.
How BEF Supports Members:
- Policy Advocacy: Engaging with the Government on business-friendly policies.
- Capacity Building: Training on RBC and Human Rights Due Diligence.
- Helpdesk Services: A One-Stop Shop for aligning operations with international standards.
- Company-Union Dialogue: Facilitating dialogue on mutual concerns via the ILO.
ILO Helpdesk for Business
The ILO Helpdesk is the primary resource for managers and workers on international labour standards. BEF provides these resources in Bangla.
Fundamental Principles
Child Labour
Forced Labour
- Tools and resources on forced labour
- Q&A on business and forced labour (English/Bangla)
Non-Discrimination & Equality
- Tools and resources on non-discrimination
- Q&A on workplace equality (English/Bangla)
Occupational Safety and Health (OSH)
- Tools and resources for OSH
- Q&A on safety and health (English/Bangla)
Freedom of Association & Collective Bargaining
Additional Topics
Available in English (contact us for Bangla translation):
- General policies
- Due diligence
- Wages and benefits
- Working time
- Violence and harassment
- Just transition
- Employment promotion
- Security of employment
Need Assistance?
The individual assistance service is free and confidential.
Email us at: assistance@ilo.org
For national labour laws, please contact the BEF Legal Unit.

