Framework on Security and Human Rights

Security and respect for human rights can, and should, be compatible. ExxonMobil formally documented our support of the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights in 2005 through our Statement of Principles on Security and Human Rights. Our accompanying Framework on Security and Human Rights provides a comprehensive set of expectations to our majority-owned operating affiliates on how to manage our interactions with both host government-assigned security and private security providers.

During 2005 and 2006, ExxonMobil rolled out our Framework on Security and Human Rights to majority-owned operating affiliates around the world. To facilitate implementation, we developed supporting model documents, including guidelines for dealing with host government security, language for memorandums of understanding for relationships with host country government security, language for contracts with private security providers, and reporting and recordkeeping templates. We use these documents to promote respect for human rights in locations in which we do business.

A component of our implementation of the Voluntary Principles and our Framework includes identifying effective ways to convey our human rights beliefs and expectations to host governments. For example, in 2006, ExxonMobil Oil Indonesia entered into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with BPMIGAS, the country’s agency responsible for managing upstream oil and gas operations, to establish expectations for government-assigned security in Aceh province, where the company operates. A similar MOA is anticipated in 2008 for operations in Cepu province, also in Indonesia.

In addition to our own implementation efforts of the Voluntary Principles, ExxonMobil believes that constructive engagement among governments, NGOs, and companies can lead to practical guidance that will help address difficult human rights issues. We share many of our experiences regarding security practices and procedures, country human rights situations, and community consultations with participants in the Voluntary Principles. We also actively participate in organizations such as the International Petroleum Industry Environmental Conservation Association (IPIECA), Business for Social Responsibility (BSR), and the U.S. Council for International Business to provide information and perspectives to enhance fundamental freedoms, including human rights. We will continue to exchange information and ideas with human rights NGOs through our Citizenship Engagement Forums.