> Wouldn't this just put these companies in awkward position explaining to each nation that operating in that nation means they to follow each of their conflicting laws?
That's actually kind of the point. It gives them a reason to push back, and more importantly it has the practical effect of making the whole issue into something that each government has to negotiate with other government, instead of just strongarming private companies. It's harder for government officials to ignore a conflict with another country's laws than to ignore corporate policies.
... and if the governments can't make a deal, maybe the company has to make a choice. And maybe that's appropriate.
That's actually kind of the point. It gives them a reason to push back, and more importantly it has the practical effect of making the whole issue into something that each government has to negotiate with other government, instead of just strongarming private companies. It's harder for government officials to ignore a conflict with another country's laws than to ignore corporate policies.
... and if the governments can't make a deal, maybe the company has to make a choice. And maybe that's appropriate.