On 14 March 2016, ECG Vice President & EBA CSR Committee Chair Dr. Nevine AbdelKhalek led a round-table discussion at the Egyptian Businessmen’s Association (EBA) on the seven pillars of sustainable development: organizational governance, human rights, labor practices, environment, fair operating practices, consumer issues, and community involvement & development.
The seven pillars shall guide EBA members when it comes to the implementation of investment plans aimed at sustainable development. The pillars also stand as important tools fostering collaboration between the government, civil society, and private sector in relation to sustainable development.
During the discussion, Dr. AbdelKhalek proposed a number of ideas for implementing these pillars, such as the application of good corporate governance by engaging workers in decision-making. She added that more attention should also be given to human rights, particularly the rights of employees with special needs. An example is the use of computer applications tailored for employees with disabilities. Other proposed ideas included the consideration of consumer issues by applying design codes that render buildings accessible to all, including individuals with physical, auditory, and visual disabilities.
The discussion was concluded with an agreement by CSR Committee members to start thinking about ways to integrate and coordinate the efforts of different companies in a single framework supporting sustainable development in the least developed governorates of Egypt.
