Nexen helped develop this Code in 1997 as a template for Canadian businesses to follow when conducting business at home and abroad. Since then, many businesses have adopted the code to ensure they operate ethically.

Vision
For Canadian business to have a global presence recognized by all stakeholders as:

• economically rewarding to all parties,
• ethical, social and environmentally responsible,
• welcomed by the communities in which we operate, and
• facilitating economic, human resource and community development within a stable operating environment.

We believe that:

• we can make a difference within our sphere of influence (stakeholders);
• business should take a leadership role through establishment of ethical business practices;
• national governments have the prerogative to conduct their own government and legal affairs in accordance with their sovereign rights;
• all governments should comply with international treaties and other agreements that they have committed to, including the areas of human rights and social justice;
• while reflecting cultural diversity and differences, we should do business throughout the world consistent with the way we do business in Canada;
• the business sector should show ethical leadership;
• we can facilitate the achievement of wealth generation and a fair sharing of economic benefits;
• our principles will assist in improving relations between the Canadian and host governments;
• open, honest and transparent relationships are critical to our success;
• local communities need to be involved in decision-making for issues that affect them;
• multi-stakeholder processes need to be initiated to seek effective solutions;
• confrontation should be tempered by diplomacy;
• wealth maximization for all stakeholders will be enhanced by resolution of outstanding human rights and social justice issues; and
• doing business with other countries is good for Canada and vice versa.

• human rights and social justice;
• wealth maximization for all stakeholders;
• operation of a free market economy;
• public accountability by governments;
• a business environment that militates against bribery and corruption;
• equality of opportunity;
• a defined code of ethics and business practice;
• protection of environmental quality and sound environmental stewardship;
• community benefits;
• good relationships with all stakeholders; and
• stability and continuous improvement within our operating environment.

Principles
A. Concerning community participation and environmental protection, we will:

• strive within our sphere of influence to ensure a fair share of benefits to stakeholders impacted by our activities;
• ensure meaningful and transparent consultation with all stakeholders and attempt to integrate our corporate activities with local communities as good corporate citizens;
• ensure our activities are consistent with sound environmental management and conservation practices; and
• provide meaningful opportunities for technology cooperation, training and capacity building within the host nation.

• support and respect the protection of international human rights within our sphere of influence;
• not be complicit in human rights abuses.

C. Concerning business conduct, we will:

• not make illegal and improper payments and bribes and will refrain from participating in any corrupt business practices;
• comply with all applicable laws and conduct business activities with integrity; and
• ensure contractors,’ suppliers’ and agents’ activities are consistent with these principles.

D. Concerning employee rights and health and safety, we will:

• ensure health and safety of workers is protected;
• strive for social justice and respect freedom of association and expression in the workplace; and
• ensure consistency with other universally accepted labour standards related to exploitation of child labour, forced labour and non-discrimination in employment.