In the 1990s, many large corporations drew up written guidelines for doing
business that are enshrined in codes of conduct. They were participating in a
movement initiated by the OECD in 1976 with its Declaration on International
Investment and Multinational Enterprises and the International Labour
Organization in 1977 with its Tripartite Declaration of Principles concerning
Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy. Total's Code of Conduct is
underpinned by these foundation texts, subsequent addenda, the UN
Secretary-General's 1999 Global Compact initiative, and international
declarations concerning human rights.
In addition to its commitment to the principles set out in these documents,
Total clearly states the principles that govern its operations in sometimes
challenging local environments. Inside the Group, this approach creates
common values that unite employees of different origins and cultures.
It also
ensures that outside partners are familiar with the standards to which
the Group is committed.
Because the Code of Conduct is applicable to operations covering a wide
variety of areas in more than 100 countries, it consists of general principles
that must be tailored to local situations. This was the case for subsidiary
Total E&P Myanmar, which in 1995 introduced a Code of Conduct to govern its
operations and those of its subcontractors. The document is regularly updated to
incorporate the subsidiary's experience.
The Code is a statement of principle that has guided Total's actions in its
capacity as operator of the Yadana project. It also has legal value, since it is
appended to every agreement signed with subcontractors working on the project
and is binding on them. Its application is closely reviewed.
The principles cover three areas:
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1. Meet high ethical standards in working practices. |
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2. Develop a mutual understanding with local communities. |
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3. Contribute to the development of the welfare of the local
population. |
Total E&P Myanmar's Code of Conduct has been enhanced
by the experience acquired over time and its wording has been fine-tuned.
The changes between the 1995 version and the
2005 Code of Conduct include (available
in English and Burmese):
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Specific environmental commitments (the 1995 Code referred to the
Group's Safety and Environment Charter). |
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A more detailed definition of relations with local communities, combining
respect for their cultural values with concern with ensuring that activities do
not affect them adversely, fair compensation for any adverse effects, and
non-interference in political matters. |
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Incorporation of the priorities of the SEP (health care, education, economic
development, infrastructure) in the principles of the Code of Conduct. |
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An explicit commitment to protecting the rights set out in the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights and prohibiting forced labor. |
