UNCTC's Contribution

Through its work, UNCTC documented the importance of the role of transnational corporations in the world economy at various stages, addressed timely key themes, and developed new conceptual and analytical frameworks. Its 17 years of negotiating experience, research and policy analysis have brought significant insight and knowledge regarding the impact of TNCs activities and the role of national and international policy in this area. Many of the issues which were debated in the 1970s and 1980s are still largely relevant today. Thus, the analytical tools provided by UNCTC – such as the development of reliable and comprehensive data, and the provision of objective, balanced and timely analysis and advice – have indeed contributed to a better understanding of the TNC phenomenon and continue to facilitate international investment relations.

The publications produced by UNCTC provide an indication of its intellectual contribution on TNC issues. These publications have dealt with a wide range of TNC-related topics, from trends in foreign direct investment and TNC activity, development issues, industry-specific studies, technology transfer issues, political, social and environmental impacts of TNCs, to international investment agreements, national laws and policies, and contractual relations between governments and TNCs. Several series of publications deserve special attention. One is the series of major surveys Multinational Corporations in World Development, published by UNCTC every five years after the first survey which led to the creation of the work programme on TNCs. Another important contribution was the periodical - The CTC Reporter, published twice per year, which provided a review of the main debates and developments in the area of TNCs both within the UN and elsewhere; In February 1992, it was superceded by the journal Transnational Corporations. The series of World Investment Reports emerged in the early 1990s as a substitute for the five-year surveys. Published on an annual basis, after the first three reports were prepared by UNCTC, the responsibility for the series was transferred, together with the work programme, to UNCTAD. It has since emerged as one of UNCTAD‘s flagship reports and continues to be considered a key source of data and analysis related to FDI and development.

Building on the UNCTC’s negotiating and analytical experience of international investment agreements, a series of papers on Key Issues in International Investment Agreements was prepared by the TNC work programme in UNCTAD. The series was part of a comprehensive programme on international investment agreements built in recognition of the normative and consensus building contribution of UNCTC over the years. Finally, following a project long debated in UNCTC, the TNC programme started the Compendium of International Investment Instruments which reproduces the texts of investment agreements, and is also continuing.