New York, United States of America, December 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — For the United Nations Global Compact, 2024 will be remembered as a year of growth, coming together and innovation marked by dedication and commitment to advancing business sustainability through Ten principles.

As the year comes to a close, we reflect on 2024 with gratitude and renewed purpose.

We welcomed 4,300 new participants and two new national networks covering 20 countries. Our global, regional and national events have brought together thousands of leaders from business, government, the UN and other fields to stimulate action and discussion on some of the most pressing global challenges. We have published a range of innovative publications and improved training and tools for business leaders.

Growth

A significant shift in businesses’ approach to sustainability occurred in 2024. More and more companies have moved from setting goals to driving change through definitive, measurable actions. At the same time, some companies have gone back on their commitments due to different challenges such as promoting sustainable development throughout their value chain.

This is where the UN Global Compact can help. With nearly 4,300 new participants joining us in 2024, we are committed to helping businesses address their challenges and integrate sustainability into their core strategies.

We have also expanded our global reach by welcoming two new national networks in the Caribbean and Ireland.

The launch of the Caribbean Network enhanced support for Caribbean businesses by providing essential resources, practical tools and peer-to-peer engagement opportunities across 19 countries.

In Ireland, the launch of the network will enable and support Irish businesses in promoting sustainable development in key sectors, such as agriculture, technology and pharmaceuticals.

With 63 national networks and five regional hubs, we look forward to expanding our reach further in 2025 and continuing to work with businesses to advance action on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Summons

In 2024, we mobilized thousands of leaders in key moments on the margins of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in January, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September and the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in November.

Additionally, we brought together stakeholders regionally at inaugural Forward Faster Now events in Asia and Oceania, as well as Latin America and the Caribbean.

At global, regional and national levels, we have activated at key moments to bring together sustainability leaders from business, government and civil society to uphold the 10 principles and promote a better future.

Innovation

In 2024, the United Nations Global Compact published several innovative reports providing businesses with valuable insights and actionable strategies to advance sustainability across various sectors.

These resources guide businesses on how to integrate sustainability practices into their business practices, including:

In addition to reporting, we have provided relevant new tools to businesses, for example through the launch of the Sustainable Supply Chain and SME thematic area, to continue supporting businesses of all sizes and throughout the supply chain.

Looking to the future

While 2024 saw significant milestones and progress, as we look towards 2025 and the 25th anniversary of the UN Global Compact, we approach the future with renewed focus and ambition.

The mission of the UN Global Compact is to accelerate and expand the collective global impact of business by respecting the Ten Principles and the SDGs through the promotion of ecosystems that enable change.

In 2024, we fulfilled this mission by investing significantly in the growing base of participants and networks, convening key stakeholders, and publishing innovative reports that stimulate conversations about sustainability.

Before the end of 2024, we want to recognize the incredible efforts of Global Compact colleagues, participants and partners. Thank you for your commitment to positive change, despite a difficult year marked by global uncertainties.

Together, we will work together to build a more resilient, equitable and sustainable future.

The inclusion of company names and/or examples is strictly for learning purposes and does not constitute an endorsement of individual companies by the UN Global Compact.

Notes to editor

About the UN Global Compact

The ambition of the UN Global Compact is to accelerate and expand the collective global impact of business by upholding the Ten Principles and achieving the SDGs through responsible businesses and ecosystems that enable change. With more than 20,000 participating companies, 5 regional hubs, 63 national networks spanning 80 countries and 13 country directors establishing networks in 18 other countries, the UN Global Compact is the world’s largest sustainable development initiative – a Global Compact uniting businesses for a better world.

CONTACT: United Nations Global Compact

(212) 907-1301

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