How can you use the UNGC Communication on Progress to engage stakeholders in your CSR initiatives?

1 What is the COP?

The COP is a voluntary report that UNGC participants submit annually to demonstrate their implementation of the ten UNGC principles and their support for the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The COP is based on a self-assessment framework that allows participants to choose the level of disclosure and verification that suits their needs and capacities. The COP also provides an opportunity for participants to share their best practices, challenges, and lessons learned with the UNGC network and the public.

3 How to prepare your COP?

In order to prepare your COP, you need to take a systematic and participatory approach that involves collecting, analyzing, and presenting relevant information on your CSR performance and progress. To get started, review the UNGC COP policy and guidance documents to understand the requirements, levels, and formats of the COP. Then define the scope, boundaries, and period of your COP, as well as decide on the level of disclosure and verification you want to achieve. Additionally, identify key stakeholders and their expectations and interests in relation to your CSR activities and impacts. After conducting a materiality assessment to determine the most significant CSR issues and topics for your business and stakeholders, collect and verify data and evidence on your CSR policies, actions, outcomes, and challenges using indicators and standards that align with UNGC principles and SDGs. When drafting and designing your COP, use clear language, visuals, and storytelling techniques that will appeal to stakeholders. Finally, seek feedback from senior management and board approval before submitting it to the UNGC website. Additionally, publish it on your own website or other communication channels.

4 How to use your COP for stakeholder engagement?

Once you have prepared and published your COP, it can be used as a strategic tool to engage your stakeholders and enhance your CSR impact. You should communicate your COP to internal and external stakeholders, using formats and channels that suit their preferences and needs. Additionally, it’s important to highlight your achievements, challenges, and commitments, as well as showcase your contribution to the UNGC principles and the SDGs. Inviting feedback and suggestions on your COP and CSR strategy, engaging stakeholders in dialogue and collaboration on CSR issues, and monitoring and evaluating stakeholder engagement activities are all great ways to improve your CSR performance and reporting.

5 How to get support and recognition for your COP?

The UNGC provides participants with resources and opportunities to receive support and recognition for their COP and CSR efforts. Participants can access the UNGC Academy, which offers online learning and training on the COP and other CSR topics. Additionally, they can join the UNGC Action Platforms, which allow them to participate in thematic projects and initiatives that promote the UNGC principles and SDGs. Furthermore, the UNGC Local Networks promote peer learning and exchange among participants in various regions and countries. Finally, the UNGC Awards celebrate and showcase the best practices of participants in the COP and CSR field.