Partnering with the Private Sector
The role of the private sector in development is increasingly recognized throughout the UN system. The 2000 UN Global Compact, for example, invites international businesses to join and abide by ten core guiding principles based on human rights, workers' rights, environmental protection and anti-corruption.
UNFPA also recognizes the importance and mutually beneficial results of closer ties with the private sector in advocacy and programming.
Engaging the initiative of the private sector has proven to be especially crucial for building both supply of and demand for reproductive health commodities, an area of considerable interest for the European Commission as well as numerous governments, such as Germany and the Netherlands.
The Nordic Liaison Office has enlisted corporate sponsorship for 2015-Goal Group campaigns that build public awareness and support for meeting the Millennium Development Goals by the 2015 target.
The Nordic Liaison Office also engages the private sector through a close relationship with Rotary International, a diverse group of business and professional leaders with a mission to promote peace and goodwill. Each year, UNFPA has a booth at the Rotary’s annual International Convention.
Private sector partners in the Campaign to End Fistula include Virgin Unite and award-winning advertising agency RKCR/Y&R – the London affiliate of the Young & Rubicam network.
