Argues that corporate governance is not just a business matter for it concerns the well-being of whole economies and populations. Notes that all countries stand to gain from improving the way their enterprises operate. Indicates that the OECD has developed a set of Principles of Corporate Governance which cover five main areas viz. the rights of shareholders and their protection; the equitable treatment of all categories of shareholders; the role of employees and other stake-holders; timely disclosure and transparency of corporate structures and operations; and the responsibilites of the board towards the company, shareholders and other stakeholders.

2/7/01 JOY_D