The UN Global Compact Office engages in a wide array of projects intended to promote awareness of the initiative, deepen engagement by companies and other stakeholders, and help participants implement the ten principles and partnerships. UN Global Compact priorities for 2008 include:
Implementing the Principles
Strategic tools and resources aid Global Compact participants in their efforts to implement the ten principles, engage in partnerships and communicate progress on corporate responsibility actions. Additionally, the Communication on Progress (COP) programme remains a priority. Top-quality COPs are now recognized through the Notable COP programme, providing an incentive for companies to enhance implementation activities, especially as efforts increase to link COPs with mainstream financial market analysis.
In 2008, various training workshops will be offered to participants (e.g. 4th COP Workshop, Progress & Value Workshop, Senior Manager Training) and a number of tools and resources will be developed to assist companies in implementation efforts (e.g. Global Compact Implementation Toolbox). The annual "Global Compact Implementation Survey" will also be undertaken in the first half of 2008. The results of this survey help the Office to prioritize and guide the development of resources, dialogues and learning events.
Global Compact Local Networks
Global Compact Local Networks are critical for increasing and intensifying the impact of the initiative Ð by providing on-the-ground support and capacity-building tied to distinct cultural, economic and linguistic needs. Global Compact networks can be found in over 60 countries around the world, with 25 new networks in development. Global Compact Local Networks offer a range of value-add activities including: convening workshops and dialogues on core issues, engaging in partnership projects, and providing guidance on the "Communication on Progress" policy.
The Global Compact Office will continue to strengthen the role of Local Networks, notably by convening regional and global meetings annually which bring networks together to exchange experiences and practices. The Office will continue to provide issue-related expertise and guidance to Local Networks, as well as promotional materials and tools in various languages. Additionally, Local Network events often require or benefit from attendance by Global Compact Office representatives.
Issue Areas
Human RightsThe Global Compact Office works to accelerate action by business to address human rights. In 2008, the year of the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, various tools will be developed and disseminated to assist companies in creating and implementing human rights policies and practices.
"Caring for Climate: The Business Leadership Platform"Caring for Climate is a voluntary platform for Global Compact participants seeking to demonstrate leadership on the climate issue. Companies that join are prepared to set goals, to change strategies and practices, and to publicly disclose emissions. Caring for Climate provides a unique interface between business and governments at the global level. In 2008, the Global Compact Office and partners will continue to raise awareness around the climate initiative and will showcase actions undertaken by signatories. Several events will take place related to Caring for Climate and a report on good practices will be developed.
The "CEO Water Mandate"The CEO Water Mandate assists companies in developing a comprehensive approach to water management, covering six key areas: direct operations, supply chain and watershed management, collective action, public policy, community engagement, and transparency. The Mandate seeks to build an international movement of committed companies. In 2008, the initiative's inaugural conference will be held.
Transparency and Anti-CorruptionThe Global Compact Office supports participants in their efforts to combat corruption in all its forms, including extortion and bribery. The Global Compact anti-corruption working group will continue to focus on the needs of the business community in implementing the 10th principle, as well as advancing coherence among existing transparency initiatives. The Office will work to provide additional guidance and support the dissemination of good practice.
Role of the Private Sector in Conflict-Prevention and Peace-BuildingThe Global Compact Office continues to support participants operating in weak or conflict-prone states in their efforts to make a positive contribution to peace and development. The Office will continue to share practical experiences and lessons-learned in the area of conflict-sensitive business practices. Additionally, the Global Compact will work with partners to discuss and identify practical options for "responsible investment" in weak states.
Partnerships for DevelopmentThe Global Compact encourages participants to take part in cross-sector partnerships that advance broad UN goals, particularly the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). To help ensure effective and high-impact partnerships, and to enhance the capacity of the United Nations to collaborate with the private sector, the Global Compact Office develops tools and resources to support the evolving partnership agenda.
Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME)PRME provides a framework for academic institutions to advance corporate responsibility through curricula and research. All business schools and management-related academic institutions are invited to endorse PRME and participate in adapting education, research and thought leadership to the new business environment. In 2008, two worldwide surveys will be undertaken to help inform and prioritize demands from the corporate sector with respect to new, more responsible approaches to management education. The 2008 Global Forum on Responsible Management Education will enhance the visibility of PRME and outline a roadmap for the initiative's future development.
Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI)
PRI invites large institutional investors - both asset owners (e.g. pension funds, foundations, endowments) and asset managers - to commit to a set of six principles designed to put environmental, social and governance issues into the core of investment decision-making. The initiative has more than 290 signatories representing approximately $11 trillion in assets.
The Foundation for the Global Compact serves as the vehicle for financial contributions made by PRI signatories. In this capacity, the Foundation administers the initiative's accounts, manages its contracts, and provides legal and accounting oversight services.