Multinationals and their value chains : an ethical perspective on multinational value chains operating in developing countries with inadequate institutions

Abstract

This thesis looks at ethical challenges faced by multinational organizations operating in developing countries with inadequate institutions. With a focus on the value chains, it highlights the participants and outside stakeholders that affect the reality of the multinational organizations. The cases presented concerns two different companies operating two different countries, Royal Dutch Shell plc in Nigeria and Hennes & Mauritz AB in Cambodia. The thesis discusses the value chains and their problems based on responsibility, on fundamental principles of ethics (perspective of justice), and on applicable principles developed by non-governmental organizations. The thesis concludes with a new perspective on the responsible participants in the value chains and presents some recommendations on how companies, in the future, should face the reality of operating in developing countries with inadequate institutions.