On November 13, the OECD, in partnership with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), released a new report entitled “Responsible Business Conduct and Anti-Corruption Compliance in Southeast Asia” (the “Report”).[1] Based on responses from 229 company representatives across 10 ASEAN countries, the Report discusses the business risks companies face and the way they manage their responsible business conduct (“RBC”) and anti-corruption compliance. The survey targeted firms of varying sizes, ownership structures, industry sectors and geographic locations, ranging from small-and-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to the largest state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Conducted in the current context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the survey particularly noted how the businesses in Southeast Asia have responded to the challenges coming along, as well as their increasing need for assistance with developing and implementing assessment frameworks on significant risks. The Report is part of a continuing work by the OECD and UNDP[, in partnership with Southeast Asian countries,] in fostering a transparent, responsible business and investment climate in the [Southeast Asia] region
Recent Trends and Challenges on Anti-Corruption Compliance and Responsible Business Conduct in Southeast Asia
