On April 16, 2024, Thailand submitted their letter of intent to apply for membership of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). This policy brief aims to provide insight into Thailand’s current approach to Responsible Business Conduct (RBC), and how becoming a member of the OECD could propel Thailand into improving their policies, inline with the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises.

 

Currently, Thailand’s record on RBC is not good enough. Communities are severely impacted by companies’ activities and human rights defenders face an increased level of threats when speaking out against corporate abuse, including through SLAPP cases. By not requiring Thai companies to conduct risk-based human rights and environmental due diligence, Thailand lags behind international business and human rights standards. Explore our paper to understand the necessary steps Thailand must take to truly be an example of RBC in the region.