United Nations Global Compact: the unmet promise of the UNGC

Abstract

Purpose

Essays on social responsibility call the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) “by far the world’s largest corporate responsibility initiative”. The authors look at two avenues to encourage responsible business behavior. First, at law, where law is not the answer and, second, at the UNGC. This paper aims to increase awareness of the UNGC, an umbrella organization supporting corporate good conduct.

Findings

The goal is to make corporations socially responsible. Law by nature addresses misconduct. The UNGC is more positive, encouraging responsible behavior in ten areas. The UNGC could be more effective. The authors suggest that social media and management education can help the UNGC positively impact corporate behavior.

Practical implications

The UNGC represents a significant opportunity. If the UNGC lives up to its potential, corporate misconduct may be lessened and corporate good behavior could be publicized, rewarded and increased.

Originality/value

The time has come to let readers start thinking about the UNGC and its goals. This can help bring greater social responsibility in tomorrow’s businesses.

Citation

Lau, C.L.L., Fisher, C.D., Hulpke, J.F., Kelly, W.A. and Taylor, S. (2017), "United Nations Global Compact: the unmet promise of the UNGC", Social Responsibility Journal, Vol. 13 No. 1, pp. 48-61. https://doi.org/10.1108/SRJ-12-2015-0184