Conference Mobilizes Businesses in Lebanon in Support of Stability and Peace

(Beirut, 19 March 2013) – International, regional and local corporate sustainability experts laid the foundations for the establishment of the Global Compact Local Network in Lebanon in a bid to promote responsible business practices and transparent sustainability reporting.

Titled “Corporate Social Responsibility in Times of Uncertainty”, the two-day event was organized in its third edition by CSR Lebanon and attended by more than 500 leaders from the business community, government, civil society and academia. Recently appointed by the UN Global Compact to be the focal point for gathering interested businesses in Lebanon, CSR Lebanon will seek to establish a robust governance structure for the Lebanese Local Network by 2014.

In his opening remarks, UN Global Compact Executive Director Georg Kell urged Lebanon’s business leaders and officials to collaborate with entrepreneurs to build the pillars of the Global Compact Local Network.

“I hope we can build a Local Network in Lebanon that strives towards building social value,” said Kell. “Businesses can collaborate strategically with governments in this regard,” he added.

Among the speakers at the opening session was Lebanese Industry Minister Vreij Sabounjian who represented President Michel Sleiman, Speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Najib Mikati. Deputy Central Bank Governor Saad Andari also spoke on behalf of Governor Riad Salameh, followed by Fransabank Chairman Adnan Kassar who stated that the business community and the UN share mutual goals of peace and sustainability that lead to prosperity and wealth creation.

A panel on “Promoting Responsible Business and Investment in High-Risk Areas & the Role of Government” noted the benefits of business support in promoting corporate responsibility in the country. Relevant guidance developed by the UN Global Compact and Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) was introduced by Kell at the beginning of the session.

During a panel discussion on integrating strategic environmental solutions throughout business supply chains, Lila Karbassi, Head of Environment and Climate for the UN Global Compact, suggested that companies should assess and consult with stakeholders to develop goals and implement a targeted strategy. "Even in times of uncertainty, companies must incorporate environmental responsibility because being proactive can have positive long-term benefits,” she said.

Additional topics targeted youth, for example corporate sustainability in education and social entrepreneurship. Adoption of the UN-backed Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) was discussed as an avenue for universities in Lebanon and the region to inspire responsible management education, research and thought leadership.

• Learn more about the Global Compact's work to promote responsible business in conflict-affected and high-risk areas.
• Review the Global Compact's efforts to advance environmental stewardship.
• Learn about Global Compact Local Networks.

Media Contact

Kristen Coco
Public Affairs and Media Relations
UN Global Compact
cocok@un.org