| The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is an international organization that works to promote and support
global trade and globalization. It serves as an advocate of world
business in the global economy, in the interests of economic growth, job creation, and prosperity. As a global business
organization, made up of member states, it helps the development of global outlooks on business matters. ICC has direct access to
national governments worldwide through its national committees.
ICC activities:
- Arbitration
- Dispute resolution
- Advocating open trade
- Advocating market economy systems
- Advocating business self-regulation
- Fighting corruption
- Combating commercial crime
History
The ICC was founded in 1919 to serve world business by promoting trade and investment,
open markets for goods and services, and the free flow of capital. The organization's international secretariat was established
in Paris and the ICC's International Court of Arbitration was created in 1923.
ICC's first president was Etienne Clémentel.
Initially representing the private sectors of Belgium, Britain, France, Italy and
the United States, it expanded to represent worldwide business
organizations in around 130 countries.
Council, national committees, and groups
The ICC World Council is a general assembly of a major intergovernmental organization composed of business executives.
National committees name delegates to the Council. Ten direct members may be invited to participate. It usually meets twice a
year. The Council elects the Chairman and Vice-Chairman for two-year terms. The Council elects the Executive Board on the
Chairman's recommendation.
The Secretary General heads the International Secretariat. The Secretary General works with the national committees to carry
out ICC's work programs. The Secretary General is appointed.
The Executive Board is responsible for implementing ICC policy. The Executive Board has between 15 and 30 members. They serve
for three years. They have a one third rotation in membership. The Chairman, his immediate predecessor, and the Vice-Chairman
form the Chairmanship.
National committees represent the ICC in their respective countries. They recommend to the ICC their respective national
business concerns in its policy recommendations to governments and international organizations.
Commissions develop international and national government initiatives in their subject areas. They also develop business
positions for submission to international organizations and governments. Commissions are composed of more than 500 business
experts from member companies.
External links
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