UN Global Compact Networks already active in facilitating collective action and policy dialogue
Christina Gradl and Anna Peters, Bertelsmann Stiftung, presented the new study on the role of UN Global Compact Local Networks as "Sustainability Hubs" during the regional meeting of the European Local Networks in Rome from October 26 to 28. They used the opportunity to conduct interviews with representatives of eight Local Networks.
Most representatives reported that they were already involved in such activities. A number of Eastern European Networks, including Bulgaria, Serbia and Ukraine, had initiatited and coordinated the process towards national CSR strategies. Yet, implementation of the associated action plans through the government was often lacking. In Western Europe, Local Networks are just one of many platforms for policy dialogue. Yet, they can make a unique contribution as an open foum for multi-stakeholder dialogue, as the example of UK shows. The study now continues with interviews with networks from other regions.