Government Support
The UN Global Compact enjoys the support of the UN General Assembly and has additionally been recognized in a number of other inter-governmental contexts, including by the G8. On 1 December 2011, the UN General Assembly renewed and expanded the mandate of the Global Compact Office and the UN office that supports the initiative in its Resolution "Towards Global Partnerships" (A/RES/66/223).

Among other things, this Resolution recognizes “the vital role the UN Global Compact Office continues to play with regard to strengthening the capacity of the United Nations to partner strategically with the private sector.” It states that the Global Compact’s activities are “in accordance with its General Assembly mandate to advance United Nations values and responsible business practices within the United Nations system and among the global business community”.

Noting an increase in the number of public-private partnerships globally, UN Member States welcome efforts by all relevant partners, including the private sector, to engage in development and recognize the critical role the private sector plays in the realization of internationally agreed goals, including the Millennium Development Goals.

The resolution places a special emphasis on promoting a gender perspective in global partnerships, and welcomes the Women’s Empowerment Principles, requesting Global Compact Local Networks to promote them widely.

UN Member States underlined the importance of the Global Compact’s integrity measures – including the Communication on Progress requirement, dialogue facilitation processes and policy on the use of the Global Compact logo. 

Governments also take note with appreciation of the annual UN Private Sector Forum and the Private Sector Track at the Fourth United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries in 2011, both organized by the Global Compact in cooperation with other partners.

(Last updated: 6 Decemeber 2011)