The Socio-Economic Program

The Code of Conduct

In the 1990's, 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.

Meeting between TEPM delegates and villagersBecause 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 affiliate 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 affiliate's experience.

CODE OF CONDUCT (2011 version)

In MYANMAR, as in every country where COMPANY operates, compliance with the COMPANY’s Health, Safety and Environmental Charter is essential. Therefore, the following principles will be implemented:

  • Meet high ethical standards in working practices:
    To treat everyone fairly and with respect, to offer equal employment opportunities, to make sure that wages are fair and working conditions are safe, to respect the culture and tradition of  local communities.
  • Develop a mutual understanding with local communities:
    To inform them about the activities planned, to establish a meaningful dialogue with local communities, to promote trust and understanding.
  • Contribute to the development of the welfare of the local population:
    To train and develop local employees, to transfer technology and expertise, to help improve the quality of life in the area concerned.

The Code is a statement of principle that has guided Total E&P Myanmar's actions in its capacity as operator of the Yadana project. It also has legal value, since it is appended to most agreements signed with subcontractors working on the projectand is binding on them. Its application is closely reviewed.

The principles cover three areas:

  1. Meet high ethical standards in working practices.
  2. Develop a mutual understanding with local communities.
  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):

  • Specific environmental commitments (the 1995 Code referred to the Group's Safety and Environment Charter).
  • 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.
  • Incorporation of the priorities of the Socio-Economic Program (public health, education, economic development, infrastructure) in the principles of the Code of Conduct.
  • An explicit commitment to protecting the rights set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and prohibiting forced labor.

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