Each year, participants of the UN Global Compact report on their sustainability efforts through the Communication on Progress (CoP). More than just a formal requirement, the CoP is a valuable opportunity for businesses to reflect on their impact, demonstrate accountability, and share their progress in aligning with the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact. It also serves as a strategic tool, helping companies strengthen their reputation, gain insights from peers, and benchmark their own progress in a global context. This year, we are highlighting key data points that we find particularly relevant or insightful. All the figures shown below are based on aggregated data from the CoPs submitted by participants of the UN Global Compact Network Switzerland & Liechtenstein. Governance Good governance is the foundation of a sustainable business. It is how companies make decisions, ensure accountability, and manage risks. This is especially relevant in our globalized world, with its complex supply chains, political uncertainty, and ethical dilemmas. When companies operate in environments with weak legal systems or heightened corruption risks, strong internal governance becomes even more critical. The data presented below offers a snapshot of how Swiss and Liechtenstein companies are embedding sustainability into their core structures. Our selection focuses on commitments, responsibility, due diligence, and executive incentives. Human Rights At its core, the concept of human rights is about inherent dignity and equal inalienable rights for all. Companies can impact human rights in many ways —including through their treatment of employees, management of supply chains, engagement with local communities, and interactions with users of their products or services . Consequently, business enterprises share the key responsibility to respect human rights. The data below shows how companies in Switzerland and Liechtenstein are turning that responsibility into action. It focuses on whether companies have formal human rights policies and what practical measures they are taking to respect human rights across their operations. Labour Rights Labour rights are a cornerstone of decent work. They include the right to freedom of association and to the effective recognition of collective bargaining, to be free from all forms of forced or compulsory labour, the right to the effective abolition of child labour, to equality and non-discrimination in employment and occupation and the right to a safe and healthy working environment. These rights are recognized internationally as fundamental principles and rights at work, as articulated by the International Labour Organization (ILO). Note that the first four rights are also reflected in the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact (UNGC); the right to a safe and healthy working environment, a part of the ILO’s fundamental principles and rights at work since 2022, is supported by the UN Global Compact as part of its broader commitment to decent work. The data below highlights how Swiss and Liechtenstein companies are addressing labour standards in practice. It focuses on the existence of relevant policies and the concrete actions companies are taking to uphold and promote labour rights in their operations and value chains. Environment Environmental responsibility is no longer optional, it is a necessity. From climate change to biodiversity loss, the impact of human activity is straining the planet's systems. Businesses play a crucial role in addressing these challenges, not only by reducing harm but by actively contributing to sustainable solutions. The data below explores how companies in Switzerland and Liechtenstein are responding to environmental issues. It highlights whether environmental policies are in place, how companies take action through training and collective initiatives, what steps are being taken on climate adaptation and resilience, and how many are engaging in reforestation efforts. Anti-Corruption Corruption comes in many forms and can affect companies across all sectors and regions. It distorts competition, inflates transaction costs and undermines trust in markets and institutions. The data presented below offers insights into how Swiss and Liechtenstein companies are addressing corruption risks. It focuses on whether a formal anti-corruption compliance programme is in place, if employees, contractors, or suppliers receive training on the topic, and how much of a strategic priority anti-corruption is within the company. The Communication on Progress offers more than just numbers — it paints a picture of how sustainability is taking root in corporate strategy, leadership, and daily operations. What we see in this year’s data is both promising and pressing: companies are taking meaningful steps, but there is still room to grow. By sharing this data, we hope to inspire more businesses to engage deeply with the Ten Principles and to learn from each other. If you wish to explore even more data collected from the CoP, you can access the data visualization tool . For a compact global overview please read the UN Global Compact's 2024 Communication on Progress (CoP) Insights Report . Transparency is the first step toward transformation and together, we can move toward a more just, inclusive, and sustainable economy. About the Communicaton on Progress The Communication on Progress (CoP) is the accountability mechanism of the UN Global Compact. It is an annual and mandatory requirement for all business participants of the UN Global Compact. The submission period for the mandatory 2025 Communication on Progress (CoP) opens on 1 April 2025 and closes on 31 July 2025. Contact for CoP-related questions Tabea Böglin Programmes Manager – Social Sustainability, ESG Reporting and Regulations tabea.boeglin@globalcompact.ch

On 3 June 2025, we had the pleasure of welcoming over 100 participants, business leaders, as well as government and civil society representatives, to our General Assembly and Global Compact Dialogue in Lausanne. We look back on an insightful day on the topic of collaboration, commemorating the UN Global Compact's 25th anniversary. 2025 General Assembly | Antonio Hautle (L) and Dr. Jérôme Barra More than 100 participants from over 90 companies gathered together for the Annual General Assembly of the UN Global Compact Network Switzerland & Liechtenstein (GCNSL) and the Global Compact Dialogue. This year's event was generously hosted by SICPA on their beautiful unlimitrust campus close to Lausanne. General Assembly GCNSL Executive Director Antonio Hautle and Vice-President Dr. Jérôme Barra guided the participants through the assembly, which began with the presentation of the Annual Report . They gave an overview of the past year’s activities, events, key highlights and provided insights into upcoming initiatives at both local and global levels. These include Accelerator Programmes , new Academy  e-learnings, upcoming peer learning groups, and various other training and engagement opportunities. For details on all upcoming events, please visit our event page . Like in previous years, the GCNSL also presented their 2024 financial statements and 2025 budget, which was approved by the present participants. As the GCNSL values transparency and accountability, an additional financial audit  conducted by PwC Switzerland was also presented. Other important votes on the agenda included the re-election of the GCNSL's current board of directors and appointing RSM Switzerland as the new auditor for 2026. The General Assembly concluded with a video featuring a speech by former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, marking the moment 25 years ago when he called for the creation of the UN Global Compact. Kofi Annan’s words remain as relevant as ever. Global Compact Dialogue Like in previous years, following our General Assembly, we hosted our Global Compact Dialogue - an interactive event open to the public featuring a mix of inputs, discussions and workshops. This year's event celebrates the 25th anniversary of the UN Global Compact, marking a quarter-century in which companies have been inspired to embed the Ten Principles and to embrace sustainability as a core driver of strategy and innovation. We aim to inspire greater ambition, unity, and collaboration. Ajar Kahlown, SICPA To commemorate this significant milestone, the GCNSL hosted a panel and workshops to explore strategies that empower businesses of all sizes to collaborate more effectively, clarify evolving legal landscapes, and drive collective climate action. At a time of geopolitical uncertainty – and only 17% of SDG targets being on track – creating a space where different stakeholders can share their expertise to shape and collaborate for a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future is more important than ever. The Global Compact Dialogue was kicked off by Ms Ajar Kahlown, Head of Human Resources at SICPA, who provided interesting insights into SICPA's sustainability approach and the unlimitrust campus. A highlight of the event was the engaging panel discussion with industry experts on the topic 'Strengthening collaboration for a sustainable future'. A big thank you to the outstanding and insightful panellists: Alissa Monk, Sustainability Lead at ten23health Auret Van Heerden, Founder & CEO at Equiception Clémence Coquet, Corporate Sustainability Manager & Controller at Sika Moderation: Vanessa Hans, Director, Private Sector at Basel Institute on Governance Auret Van Herden, Clémence Coquet, Alissa Monk and Vanessa Hans (L to R) The panel was followed by three practical, parallel workshops, each exploring different aspects of collaboration in greater depth. These focused on Climate Action , the EU Omnibus Package , and SME Partnerships Along the Value Chain . Leveraging Collaboration for Impactful Climate Action The workshop was facilitated by Anna Eiperle, Programme Manager Environment & SDGs at GCNSL, and brought together engaged minds from diverse sectors to explore how partnerships can drive real progress in the fight against climate change. The highlight was an insightful input by Hildevig Svaizer from ABB, who provided two examples on supplier collaboration for primary data collection and industry peer collaboration when it comes to decarbonization. The input was followed by breakout groups, where participants exchanged ideas, challenges, and practical approaches to effective climate collaboration focused on cross-sector or supplier collaboration. An exciting outcome was the launch of a new Climate Exchange Group for which GCNSL participants can now sign up for. Navigating Legal Uncertainty: EU Omnibus Package This workshop was facilitated by  Tabea Böglin, Programme Manager Social & ESG Regulations & Reporting  at GCNSL, featuring guest speaker Taras Piterskikh from Hero AG. The session brought together participants to s park deeper internal conversations and broaden the ESG agenda . Our guest speaker  shared how Hero AG is using sustainability reporting as a catalyst for transformation by going beyond “ticking the box” and instead triggering the right questions and driving changes across the business. While challenges persist, especially resource allocation and maintaining a strong sustainability culture, the consensus was clear: now is the time to turn uncertainty into progress.  Through the conversations with participants, it was great to see that a growing number of organizations are shifting the ESG narrative from a compliance mindset to recognising sustainability as a business opportunity.  The workshop concluded with the launch of a new ESG Regulations Exchange Group - a platform for GCNSL participants to learn and exchange with peers on regulatory developments. Collaborating for Change: SME Partnerships Along the Value Chain Facilitated by Fabio Gfeller, Sustainability Advisor at GCNSL, this interactive workshop explored how SMEs can be powerful drivers of change through collaboration across value chains. The workshop included a compelling input from Patrick Dümmler from the Schweizer Gewerbeverband, who outlined both the challenges and the untapped potential of SMEs in Switzerland. Participants then dove into focused group discussions, exchanging ideas and experiences around building effective partnerships. Key topics included: Strengthening SME knowledge and capacity Developing smart, collaborative strategies Simplifying legal processes through accessible tools and support As a concrete outcome, the workshop sparked the launch of the SME Peer Exchange Group. This new community is designed to foster ongoing learning, support, and collaboration. More information on the SME Exchange Group will be available soon. We would like to thank everyone who attended the GCNSL General Assembly and Global Compact Dialogue! Once again, a special thank you to our host SICPA for sponsoring the venue, lunch and apéro as well as for their invaluable logistical support. A big shout-out to the GCNSL team, board and all participants for their ongoing support and valuable contributions. We look forward to witnessing how the insights, connections, and discussions gained from this event will contribute to the collective effort to create a sustainable future. All photo credits: UN Global Compact Network Switzerland & Liechtenstein

The UN Global Compact Network Switzerland & Liechtenstein is excited to announce the launch of their new ESG Regulations Navigator for their participants. This digital tool gives a comprehensive overview of current ESG regulations, supporting companies to quickly understand key requirements, applicability, and deadlines that may impact their business. With increasing regulations such as the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), companies must step up their due diligence and data collection efforts. The ESG Regulations Navigator breaks down the recommendations of the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Business Conduct (OECD Guidance) and transforms them into actionable items while also comparing them to national and regional regulations. "We are pleased to introduce the ESG Regulations Navigator to help companies from our network understand key legislative obligations, allowing them to prioritise and focus on potential gaps in their current sustainability implementation and approach. We believe this new tool will reduce frustration when companies try to identify actions common to several regulations and that it provides a good basis for discussions with internal and external stakeholders." – Antonio Hautle, Executive Director, UN Global Compact Network Switzerland & Liechtenstein.   The ESG Regulations Navigator compares the OECD Guidance with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, Swiss Code of Obligations (non-financial transparency, due diligence and transparency on minerals and metals and child labour), and the CSDDD, to name a few.   Participants of the UN Global Compact Network Switzerland & Liechtenstein can access the tool for free using their company email address . Introduction & Insights For more information, join an upcoming introductory webinar where attendees will gain deeper insights into the ESG Regulations Navigator in just 30 minutes. Contact ESG Regulations Navigator                                      Tabea Böglin                                                                               Programmes Manager – Social Sustainability, ESG Reporting & Regulations UN Global Compact Network Switzerland & Liechtenstein            tabea.boeglin@globalcompact.ch      Media Contact Melanie Ferreira Marketing & Communications Manager UN Global Compact Network Switzerland & Liechtenstein melanie.ferreira@globalcompact.ch

UNICEF Switzerland and Liechtenstein and the UN Global Compact Network Switzerland and Liechtenstein published the study entitled " Children’s Rights and Finance: How the Swiss and Liechtenstein financial industry can promote and protect children’s rights ". The study emphasizes the significance of children as stakeholders in the financial industry’s activities, highlights how financial institutions’ decisions can have positive or negative impacts on children and provides practical recommendations on how Swiss and Liechtenstein financial industry can promote and protect children’s rights. F ind below the summary for ten key recommendations addressed to banks, wealth and asset managers, insurance companies, and other important stakeholders in the financial industry. Recommendations to financial institutions Apply a   ‘child-lens approach’ to governance, strategy, risk management, and products and services, and commit to upholding children’s rights Consider children’s rights in the double-materiality assessment and disclose accordingly Recognize the positive and negative impacts of all financial products and services on children (directly and indirectly via parents and caregivers); when material adverse impacts are possible, conduct due diligence As part of sustainable finance or environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing strategies, conduct positive screening to identify companies with above-average performance in relation to children’s rights and create innovative products Improve stewardship and engagement with clients and investee companies to promote children’s rights Include children’s and human rights considerations in the financial institution’s net-zero transition plan and strive for a just and inclusive transition Participate in multi-stakeholder initiatives to increase leverage and seek expertise to promote children’s rights Recommendations to other key stakeholders Corporate and institutional clients of financial institutions should commit to respecting the rights of children ESG research companies, data providers and reporting standard-setters should contribute to the availability of meaningful and comparable data Regulators and policymakers should cover children’s rights comprehensively beyond child labour and along the entire value chain and hold financial institutions accountable to the same standards as other companies

In the week of 25 September 2024, more than 80 organizations in Switzerland and Liechtenstein celebrated the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by raising over 120 SDG flags to show their commitment to the Agenda 2030. September 2024 marks nine years since the SDGs were adopted by 193 UN member states. The SDGs call for global collaboration between governments, businesses, and civil society to deliver a powerful vision for improving our world by 2030. More than halfway to 2030, we need significant change if we are to achieve this agenda. The SDG Flag Day campaign was initiated by the UN Global Compact (UNGC) country network Netherlands in 2020 and has grown to include hundreds of businesses, government agencies, civil society organizations, and schools worldwide that raise an SDG flag every September to mark the adoption of the SDGs and show their support for them. Since then, an increasing number of UN Global Compact country networks have joined the initiative. Throughout the week of 25 September, more than 120 SDG flags were prominently displayed by over 80 organizations in Switzerland & Liechtenstein which generated strong engagement on platforms such as LinkedIn under the hashtag #TogetherfortheSDGs. Participants took creative approaches, using the flag day as an opportunity to engage employees in sustainability initiatives, host educational events, and connect with their communities around the urgency of the SDGs and the 2030 Agenda. Here are some highlights and impressions from our participants and partners in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us to make this year's SDG Flag Day a success. We look forward to continuing this tradition in 2025! Would you like to include your images? Please email us and we will gladly add it to our gallery: info@globalcompact.ch What's Next? From raising the flag to accelerating action. While the symbolic act of raising the SDG flag is a powerful gesture of solidarity, it's clear that much more needs to be done. The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2024  shows that only 17% of the goals are on track, while a worrying 18% show stagnation and 17% have regressed from the 2015 baseline. Despite these challenges, the SDGs are still within reach - if we act with urgency and commitment. The UN Global Compact offers several programs and resources for organizations looking to deepen their engagement and drive tangible progress on the SDGs: Forward Faster Initiative : A pathway for companies to focus their efforts where they can have the biggest, most immediate impact before 2030. Accelerator Programmes : These three- to six-month programmes provide guidance on embedding SDG-aligned practices across business operations and the value chain (available to UN Global Compact participants). SDG Focus Area : Explore a wealth of resources and tools to help scale up and align your organization’s actions with the SDGs. Join the UN Global Compact Network : Connect with peers and experts, and gain access to more opportunities to drive sustainable change. The time for action is now. Let's continue to raise awareness and mobilize action around the SDGs to ensure that the world we pass on to future generations is just, equitable, and sustainable.

The Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) data landscape is evolving as ESG ratings transition away from traditional, aggregated scores that rely primarily on self-reported data. This shift is driven by the demand for more precise, transparent metrics that provide stakeholders with deeper insights and effectively address increasing regulatory scrutiny. This evolution enhances the reliability of ESG assessments, ensuring they more accurately reflect company practices and performance. Challenges in ESG Rating Systems Traditional ESG ratings have relied on company disclosures and questionnaires, with publicly listed companies spending between USD 220,000 and USD 480,000 annually, and private companies up to USD 425,000.¹ Despite these costs, many companies are dissatisfied with the accuracy and transparency of traditional ratings. Self-reported, aggregated scores often obscure critical financial and reputational risks. While companies highlight positive actions like board diversity and waste reduction, composite scores can mask significant operational and supply chain risks, pushing stakeholders to demand more granular data for a clearer view of ESG performance. Regulatory pressures, including frameworks like the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), underscore the need for detailed ESG scores. These regulations demand precise insights to hold companies accountable and provide metrics that clearly reflect corporate risks. Additionally, there is a rising demand for independent ESG risk data, which is essential for assessing and managing risks tied to specific business practices and ESG factors. The Power of Disaggregated ESG Scores Disaggregated ESG scores offer a detailed view of company performance across various ESG factors. By examining individual components, stakeholders can identify where a company faces more or less risk, allowing them to assess what matters most based on their business goals, policies, and values. This approach ensures decision-makers have the data needed to comply with regulations and understand impacts on people and the planet. Risks vary depending on the sector. For instance, in the global oil and gas industry, disaggregated scores provide a clearer risk profile. The sector's environmental impacts make biodiversity a priority. Disaggregated scores expose specific risks related to local pollution, protected areas, land ecosystems, waste management, and endangered species. Moreover, global operations expose oil and gas companies to regions with diverse human rights records. Disaggregated scores highlight risks like corporate complicity, land grabbing, indigenous rights, and forced labor. Due Diligence and Compliance for Every Business, Every Sector Disaggregated scores enable due diligence and compliance processes to effectively flag investments, customers, or suppliers at risk of violating business conduct norms, regulations, or internal policies. This approach is particularly useful for: Companies:  Ensures compliance with business conduct standards and regulations, promoting ethical practices and minimizing compliance risks. Banks and Insurance Companies:  Enhances Know Your Client (KYC) and transaction due diligence, reducing financial and reputational risks. Asset Managers, Asset Owners, and Index Providers:  Strengthens norms-based screening for private equity and debt, aligning investments with ethical standards. Conclusion The shift in ESG ratings toward disaggregated metrics marks a new era of precision and transparency. By highlighting risks where they matter most, disaggregated scores improve due diligence and compliance, offering stakeholders the clarity they need to protect investments and maintain strong business relationships. This evolution not only builds trust but also drives progress in corporate responsibility and sustainability. The future of ESG lies in the precision and transparency offered by disaggregated scores, which are essential for effective risk management and informed decision-making. For an in-depth look at the value of disaggregated scores, refer to the full RepRisk report: The evolution of ESG data: disaggregated scores for precision and transparency .  ¹ Companies pay up to $500,000 for sustainability ratings - report By Reuters / March 27, 2023    Author: Laura Zamarian - Marketing Business Development Manager Email: laura.zamarian@reprisk.com About RepRisk: RepRisk is a global leader in identifying and assessing business conduct and ESG risks for organizations worldwide. Using artificial and human intelligence, RepRisk focuses on what companies may not disclose, uncovering risks such as deforestation, human rights abuses, and corruption – empowering clients to identify and manage risks faster and with confidence. www.reprisk.com

On 6 June 2024, we had the pleasure of welcoming many participants, business leaders, government representatives and civil society experts to our General Assembly and Global Compact Dialogue in Schlieren (ZH). We look back on a successful day that emphasized the critical role of the private sector in achieving the 2030 Agenda. General Assembly The assembly started with the presentation of the Annual Report, which gave an overview of past activities, events, and highlights. Furthermore, the Secretariat team shared an outlook on the current and planned activities on a local and global level including interactive Accelerator Programmes, insightful Academy e-learnings, upcoming peer learning groups, and other training and learning opportunities. For all upcoming events, please visit our event page. In addition, a thorough review of the 2023 financial statements and 2024 budget was presented, detailing our income, expenses, and overall financial health. Given the importance of transparency and accountability to our organization, we also shared an additional financial audit conducted by PwC Switzerland. Another important point on the agenda was the election of our network's board of directors. We would like to warmly welcome the following new people to the board of the UN Global Compact Network Switzerland & Liechtenstein: Aurelia Figueora | Global Director of Sustainability at Breitling Vanessa Hans | Head of Private Sector at Basel Institute on Governance Stephanie Ossenbach | Group Sustainability Officer at dormakaba International Holding AG We also said goodbye to two board members who stepped down. Their dedication, impactful contributions, and efforts played a vital role in supporting our organization and our activities. A big thank you to: Adrienne Williams | Group Vice President, Head of Corporate Responsibility at ABB Helen Medina | Senior Public Affairs Manager, Government and Multilateral Relations at Nestlé SA Global Compact Dialogue Following our General Assembly, participants as well as other interested individuals were welcomed to our Global Compact Dialogue - an interactive event that brought together business leaders, government representatives, SDG stakeholders, and professionals from civil society dedicated to advancing sustainability. The event provided a platform for dynamic discussions on ambitious corporate sustainability action and practical workshops focused on key areas, where the private sector can collectively make the biggest, fastest impact by 2030. After a brief welcome, Noemi Rom, Head of Sustainability Transformation at Zühlke, kicked off the event with interesting insights into how sustainability can be used as a driver of opportunity and how Zühlke supports clients in transforming their businesses to become more sustainable. This input was followed by Lucas Ribeiro, Climate Ambition Accelerator Lead at the UN Global Compact, who introduced the Forward Faster initiative and shared some numbers that underline why more than ever it is essential that companies play a crucial role in achieving the SDGs and the 2030 Agenda. A highlight of the event was the engaging panel discussion with industry experts who shared their experiences and showcased examples of impactful measures taken to drive sustainable transitions and effect positive change for both people and the environment. We would like to extend our gratitude to our insightful panelists: Serena Alonso, Human Rights Specialist at dormakaba | Addressing child labour in the cobalt supply chain Carrie Scott, Head, Sustainability and ESG at Novartis | Internal governance measures to drive access to health Brett Dodge, Lead - Human Rights in Agriculture and Food Systems & Senior Consultant at Ergon Associates | The centrality of living wages to address root causes of human rights risks Lucas Ribeiro, Climate Ambition Accelerator Lead at UN Global Compact | Good practices from SBTi & climate action and achievements from Climate Ambition Accelerator The panel was followed by three parallel workshops focusing on topics of the Forward Faster initiative: Ensuring a Living Wage for All Driving Gender Equality in the Workplace Science-Based Climate Action: Managing key decarbonization challenges The workshops offered a deep dive into relevant topics, creating a platform for participants to discuss their challenges and opportunities while learning from peers and experts in their field. The event concluded with a networking apéro where attendees had the opportunity to connect and continue the conversations started during the panel discussions and workshops. We would like to thank everyone who attended our General Assembly and Global Compact Dialogue! A special thank you goes to our host Zühlke for sponsoring the venue, lunch and for their invaluable logistical support. Thank you also to MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company SA for sponsoring the apéro. We look forward to witnessing how the insights, connections, and discussions gained from this event will contribute to the collective effort to create a sustainable future. All photo credits: Fabio Endrich / Endrich Media Agency

There are significant benefits for businesses incorporating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into their operations, including new business opportunities, increased attractivity for employees, customers, and investors, better employee retention, supply chain resilience, and reduced costs. Although 96% of business leaders agree that the private sector plays a crucial role in achieving the SDGs, companies report difficulties in integrating the SDGs into their core strategies and in understanding, reporting, and managing their impact on the Goals. Together with European networks of the UN Global Compact we are carrying out a study and comparative analysis on where European companies stand in regards to the implementation of the SDGs. In order to accurately and effectively represent the Swiss and Liechtenstein private sector, we are inviting local companies, of all sizes and industries, to take part in this study, also businesses that are not part of the UN Global Compact. The survey is open until 15 May 2024, and will take 15min to complete. The results will be unveiled at the end of September at the Private Sector Forum, organized during the week of the United Nations General Assembly. All answers provided will be treated in strict confidence. If you have any questions or encounter challenges in completing the survey, please send an email to info@globalcompact.ch.

In the context of ongoing regulatory developments and the expected vote on the European Union Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive, the UN Global Compact reaffirms its support for mandatory human rights due diligence. Legislation and regulations at national or regional levels provide enforceable mechanisms to raise corporate responsibility and accountability, protect victims and level the playing field for corporations and other actors by clarifying responsibility. The UN Global Compact has consistently expressed strong support for mandatory due diligence, noting the limitations of voluntary due diligence measures in failing to hold companies accountable for human rights abuses. Voluntary ambitious action, coupled with mandatory measures aligned with international guiding frameworks will drive corporate responsibility at this crucial time when collective action is needed more than ever. Laudably, over the last decade, momentum for mandatory human rights and environmental due diligence has grown worldwide. When these laws align with international human rights and environmental policies, they enable a coherent and collectively measurable approach to responsible business conduct. As the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, the UN Global Compact continues to support businesses in becoming future-proofed for ever-emerging laws and regulations by aligning voluntary, ambitious human rights actions with internationally accepted human rights and environmental standards, including the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises and the ILO Conventions. Aligned with the ambition of the UN Global Compact to accelerate and scale the collective impact of businesses by upholding the Ten Principles and delivering the Sustainable Development Goals, we stand ready to support business on their due diligence journeys. Find the original Statement on the UN Global Compact website.

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable practices including environmental and human rights; the European Union's forthcoming regulation on deforestation, set to be enforced as of January 1st, 2025, marks a pivotal shift. Covering commodities like coffee, cocoa, palm oil, soy, timber, and rubber, as well as their derivatives, this regulation signals a fundamental change in the way businesses approach sustainability, particularly concerning deforestation. 1. Sustainability as a Must-Have Requirement, Deforestation is just the First Step Multiple new regulations are propelling sustainability from a mere differentiation factor to an indispensable pre-competitive necessity. Compliance is not just about staying ahead; it is about meeting baseline requirements. Converting sustainable practices from a choice or a differentiator to a prerequisite for conducting business, with penalties associated with merely maintaining the status quo becoming substantial. For example, foreseen fines in case of non-compliance specifically for the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), go up to 4% of company turnover within the EU, a serious business risk. 2. Disaggregated flows and the data reality The commodities selected by the EU for EUDR have been done so for good reason. Simply put, these products are significant contributors to non-sustainable activities. What’s concerning for many operators and brands in their rushed compliance is that substantial amounts of these products come from smallholder subsistence farmers in highly fragmented value chains. These farmers produce limited quantities, resulting in vast volumes of granular data. Disaggregation and data often present compatibility challenges! Beyond a tier 1 or 'direct supplier' relationship, ensuring quality information becomes significantly challenging. As you approach the origin, profit margins shrink, discouraging investment in additional overheads or complexity without commensurate rewards. To compound the challenge, education and technical expertise often decline at the start of agricultural supply chains, leading to a lack of governance and control. 3. Need for Robust Traceability Solutions This shift in perspective leads to a need for greater transparency in procurement practices, transparency that drives decisions to ensure compliance; and that can be justified. Robust traceability is demanded like it has never been before to both prove compliance with all laws and regulations at a local origin level and ensure that products imported into the EU are not grown on deforested land. To assure supply chain flexibility and resilience, processes easy to follow and add value to the actors upstream, systems need to be simple, scalable, and interoperable. The challenge lies in developing systems capable of handling the complexities of first-mile farm reality, often offline and in remote environment, while also integrating seamlessly with existing IT infrastructure on client side. Technological processes need to be auditable and dependable so more focus can be on analysis, quickly identifying risks and fixing root causes before they manifest into issues. In essence, it requires dedicating additional time to refining people and processes to uphold data quality and ensure reliable reporting. 4. Addressing Compliance and Beyond The Swiss based company farmer connect has developed an extensive traceability solution for risk and due diligence monitoring of disaggregated supply chains, it has been specially tailored to the European Union Deforestation Regulation compliance requirements but goes well beyond. It efficiently allows first-mile data intake, including polygon data, satellite-based deforestation assessments and provides the necessary data stipulated by the regulation – assuring use of already existing data. Moreover, the solution isn't limited to deforestation. It can encompass various sustainability data, covering aspects like child labor, living income, or farm practice certifications, thereby ensuring compliance with additional regulations like the German Supply Chain Act or the European Green Deal. 5. Leveraging Data for Broader Goals While compliance is crucial, the data gathered in a traceability system can serve multiple purposes beyond regulatory demands. It can be instrumental in annual sustainability reporting, offering transparency and accountability to shareholders or financial institutions. Furthermore, this data can facilitate consumer engagement, allowing consumers to make informed choices aligned with their values. In conclusion, the European regulation on deforestation is not merely a burden; it's an opportunity to foster visibility, drive tangible improvements, and propel the industry towards a more sustainable future. Farmer connect's auditable traceability is a great example of how regulatory requirements can be turned into avenues for positive change. Authors Susanne Emonet, CEO, farmer connect Kristian Doolan, Partnership and Innovation, farmer connect Source farmer connect About farmer connect Farmer connect is a traceability software for trusted and auditable data on sustainability to address your compliance and reporting needs. They are a pioneer in developing auditable traceability solutions that bridge the gap between regulatory demands and practical implementation. Their solution stands out for its interoperability and integration capabilities, seamlessly incorporating third-party data such as satellite assessments or existing certifications.

On 25 September 2023, more than 200 organisations located in Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Austria raised an SDG flag to show their support for the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). September 2023 marked eight years since the world embraced the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs, also known as the Global Goals, reflect a shared objective and ambition across all countries to end poverty and hunger everywhere, to combat inequalities within and among countries, to build peaceful, just, and inclusive societies, to protect human rights and promote gender equality and to ensure the lasting protection of the planet and its natural resources by 2030. What began with a few flags in the Netherlands in 2020 has grown to more than 1'000 flags being raised worldwide in the past years by businesses, NGOs, municipalities, universities, libraries, and other civil society organisations. In 2023, more UN Global Compact Local Networks than ever joined the global movement. With great pleasure, we also invited organisations in Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Austria to participate this year in the SDG Flag campaign. During the week the 25th of September, the SDG flag was displayed on many organisational premises and also had a strong presence on LinkedIn and Twitter (check the hashtag #togetherfortheSDGs). It was inspiring to witness the diverse approaches taken by these organisations to leverage this opportunity for conveying their sustainability goals, coordinating staff engagement activities, or hosting community events aimed at raising awareness about the SDGs and the Agenda 2030. Here are some impressions of the SDG Flag Day from our participants and partners in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. We would like to thank everyone who supported this initiative. We look forward to the next year! Would you like to include your images? Please email us and we will gladly add it to our gallery: info@globalcompact.ch What's next? Raising a flag is not enough. Only 18% of the SDGs are on track or have been achieved, while 15% of the goals are seeing a reversal in progress and over two-thirds of the goals are currently seeing “limited or no progress.” Despite this alarming development, none of the objectives are beyond our reach but we need to intensify the efforts. This section provides you with an overview of the programmes and resources that the UN Global Compact offers you, if you would like to learn more and continue raising awareness on the SDGs: Join the Forward Faster initiative where companies are guided on where to make the biggest, fastest impact before 2030 Embed SDG-aligned practices into your business operations and across the value chain by joining one of our six-month Accelerator programmes (only for participating companies of the UN Global Compact) Visit our SDG Focus Area for more guidance and resources to further align and scale up action for the SDGs Find out more about joining the UN Global Compact Network Switzerland & Liechtenstein for further opportunities and to connect with peers and experts

In 2023 a dedicated project team in Schaan, Liechtenstein, decided on a unique way to educate the public on sustainability and raise awareness on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): they built a 35-meter tower with an interactive exhibition that explains how everyone can contribute to a better and more sustainable future. The tower project "Ich, die Zukunft” (in English: “I, the Future") is an exhibition, dialogue platform, and meeting place where various events are held over the course of 17 weeks (standing for the 17 SDGs) to address relevant sustainability topics. In addition, visitors can enjoy the spectacular view of the surrounding mountains from the observation deck at the top of the tower on the 10th floor. During the exhibition, visitors experience insights and food for thought on biodiversity, society and generations, economy and growth, regionality, food and agriculture, as well as Liechtenstein's sustainability goals. Almost daily, additional events take place where various organisations, associations, and companies host discussions, lectures, and social events to facilitate the exchange of information. The UN Global Compact Network Switzerland & Liechtenstein had the pleasure of hosting several events on the importance of sustainability in the private sector. On Friday, June 24 we explored how businesses, both SMEs and large companies, can contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to foster a more sustainable and inclusive economy. The event was an open dialogue, where attendees had the opportunity to delve into the topic, ask critical questions, and gain valuable insights. The session featured representatives from the UNGC participants LGT and Liebherr, who shared their sustainability journeys, providing firsthand accounts of their experiences and the challenges they encountered while implementing responsible business practices. On Saturday we organized an interactive event where the public was invited to learn more about sustainability and the SDGs. Visitors of all ages were welcomed to immerse themselves in various activities, games, quizzes, and even a friendly competition. The event provided an enjoyable platform for people to learn more about sustainability in an approachable and engaging way. The event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of sustainability and the role that individuals can play in achieving the SDGs. The activities showcased the interconnectedness of the SDGs and how their achievement can positively impact our planet and society. The event served as a reminder that sustainability is not just an abstract concept but something that can be integrated into our daily lives. Watch our Instagram reel for more insights. It was a pleasure and an honour for our network to be part of "Ich, die Zukunft'. Projects and events like this not only raise awareness of the importance of sustainability, but also serve as catalysts for collaboration and knowledge sharing between companies, associations, and society. We are excited to be back at the Liechtenstein tower on July 19, 2023 for another evening session targeted at businesses. Let us all be inspired by this tower and continue to work together to create a more sustainable and inclusive world for the benefit of present and future generations. Together, we can make a difference!