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Harnessing power within global value chains for sustainable development

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  • Ari Van Assche
  • Kristin Brandl

Abstract

Global value chains (GVCs) are a powerful vehicle through which multinational enterprises (MNEs) can help address the grand challenges that humanity faces. But optimally utilizing GVCs for sustainability requires fundamental changes in corporate behaviour. In this paper we expound the concept of MNE economic power within GVCs and discuss needed changes for MNE business models to fill governance gaps. We debate the renewed role of public governance to promote social and environmental standards along GVCs and outline policies that governments should adopt to help MNEs and lead firms alter their business model

Suggested Citation

  • Ari Van Assche & Kristin Brandl, . "Harnessing power within global value chains for sustainable development," UNCTAD Transnational Corporations Journal, United Nations Conference on Trade and Development.
    • Handle: RePEc:unc:tncjou:77
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Dimitropoulos, Panagiotis & Koronios, Konstantinos & Sakka, Georgia, 2023. "International business sustainability and global value chains: Synthesis, framework and research agenda," Journal of International Management, Elsevier, vol. 29(5).
    3. Hari Bapuji & Snehanjali Chrispal & Balagopal Vissa & Gokhan Ertug, 2023. "Local, yet global: Implications of caste for MNEs and international business," Journal of International Business Policy, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 6(2), pages 201-234, June.
    4. Anthony Goerzen & Michael Sartor & Kristin Brandl & Stacey Fitzsimmons, 2023. "Widening the lens: Multilevel drivers of firm corporate social performance," Journal of International Business Studies, Palgrave Macmillan;Academy of International Business, vol. 54(1), pages 42-60, February.
    5. Ari Van Assche & Rajneesh Narula, 2023. "Internalization strikes back? Global value chains, and the rising costs of effective cascading compliance," Economia e Politica Industriale: Journal of Industrial and Business Economics, Springer;Associazione Amici di Economia e Politica Industriale, vol. 50(1), pages 161-173, March.
    6. Paola Perez-Aleman & Tommaso Ferretti, 2023. "Creating innovation capabilities for improving global health: Inventing technology for neglected tropical diseases in Brazil," Journal of International Business Policy, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 6(1), pages 84-114, March.

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