
Can businesses influence global development and help alleviate world poverty? Björn Stigson, President of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) is intentionally blunt in his assessment of the situation: "Businesses can make a difference, but it requires support from governments who play a critical part in creating the framework conditions in which business serves society."

Corporations of today are arguably faced with a new risk reality where stakeholders hold corporations morally accountable. Companies that choose to embrace this new reality reap benefits in terms of reputation and branding, trust and communication.

An increasing number of institutional investors document environmental, social and corporate governance metrics and use this data to assess company competitiveness, overall value and future performance potential.

Modern companies increasingly understand the importance and benefits of accountability, business ethics and corporate governance to meet stakeholder expectations. Corporate responsibility is becoming synonymous with the visions and values of the company.