Commemorating 25 years of the UN Global Compact

As we mark the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Global Compact, we reflect on a journey that began with a bold vision, one that has remained steadfast despite pressures. Launched on 26 July 2000, under the leadership of then-Secretary-General Kofi Annan, the UN Global Compact was founded on a powerful idea: that business, Government and civil society can work together to create a more inclusive, ethical and sustainable world. That “can” became “do”. What began with 44 companies has become the world's largest corporate sustainability initiative. Today, more than 22,000 participants in more than 160 countries are working together to advance universal principles in human rights, labour, the environment and anti-corruption. This remarkable growth stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of the mission of the Compact.

UN Food Systems Summit (UNFSS+4)in Addis Ababa

The second Stocktake of the UN Food Systems Summit (UNFSS+4) took place 27-29 July in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with renewed urgency and a unified call for accountability. Co-hosted by the Governments of Ethiopia and Italy, the Summit brought together a broad coalition of world leaders, multilateral institutions, civil society, Indigenous Peoples, youth, farmers, private sector actors and more. All shared the same sentiment: commitment to transforming food systems to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The launch of the NDE Toolkit for your business

The UN Global Compact launched a free, confidential Non-discrimination and Equality Analysis Tool (NDE Toolkit) on 23 July to help companies assess and improve inclusive workplace practices. Covering 13 key performance areas, the tool enables businesses to identify gaps, align with global standards and embed non-discrimination and equality across operations. Workplace equality is both a human right and a business priority. This tool supports companies in driving meaningful progress toward sustainable workplaces while simultaneously expanding access for stakeholders.

Emphasizing the importance of private sector alignment at the High-Level Political Forum

As the High-Level Political Forum ended on 23 July, stakeholders across sectors called for bold, inclusive action to realign with the 2030 Agenda. The Forum highlighted the private sector’s critical role, showing how blended finance and inclusive innovation are driving results. With only 35% of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) targets on-track, real-time strategies, partnerships and equity-centred solutions are essential. The next five years demand urgent, united action to leave no one behind and deliver on the SDGs.

Panel discussion on advancing LGBTIQ+ inclusion in corporate policies

On 8 July, the UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka hosted a timely panel on LGBTIQ+ inclusion in the workplace. Advocates and industry leaders emphasized the need for intentional, policy-driven approaches to equality. The discussion highlighted the private sector’s responsibility to go beyond statements and take action, listening to lived experiences, identifying gaps and embedding inclusion into culture and practice. When workplace inclusion is intentional and deliberate, meaningful change follows.

UN Global Compact Network Australia Launches 2025 Human Rights Due Diligence Report

The UN Global Compact Network Australia released the 2025 edition of the Business Integration of Human Rights Due Diligence in Australia: Modern Slavery and Beyond. While many businesses have responded to the Modern Slavery Act since 2018, broader alignment with the UN Guiding Principles remains uneven. This updated report offers legislative insights, as companies throughout Australia were interviewed, and their perspectives are presented in this publication. Supporting companies of all sizes to embed human rights due diligence across operations is vital. 

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