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Article

1 Aug 2002

Author:
Laura Miller, PR Watch, in Corporate Europe Observer

Social Responsibility and the Mechanical Bull

The International Chamber of Commerce Dresses for Success [commentary on the 34th World Congress of the International Chamber of Commerce, May 2002] -...This lack of definition and emphasis on 'voluntary' initiatives clearly suits the public relations objectives of corporations, which want to create a feel-good aura for themselves while simultaneously avoiding any specific, verifiable commitments that might constrain their behaviour...ICC's own rationale for good behaviour avoids any statements on ethics or universal human rights. Its pamphlet states, "ICC applauds the primacy accorded to human rights by the United Nations; however, the making and enforcement of laws for protecting human rights are tasks for governments." Instead of morality, ICC argues that profits are the driving consideration that will motivate companies to behave well.