United Nations Global Compact Network Lebanon is one of the 68 Local Networks around the world that operates through a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the UN Global Compact HQ (HQ). We are independent and self-managed entities with the unique mandate to provide direct local support to UN Global Compact participants based in our respective country with direct communication and guidance from UN Global Compact HQ. Global Compact Network Lebanon (GCNL) works closely with the UN Global Compact (UNGC) headquarters to provide opportunities for learning, policy dialogue, and partnerships on the Ten Principles of responsible conduct and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

GCNL was launched in September 2015 and initially hosted at the American University of Beirut (AUB). In 2018, a legal entity was established for the sole purpose of hosting GCNL’s Secretariat and the MOU with the UN Global Compact was updated reflecting this new hosting arrangement.

Global Compact Network Lebanon advances the UN Global Compact initiative, its Ten Principles, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the country level. We help companies build a strong understanding of responsible business within our national context and put their sustainability commitments into action as well as facilitate local connections – with other businesses and stakeholders from NGOs, government and academia. Our activities are organized across these five streams:

1. Awareness Raising: Helping Business Understand SDG Risks and Opportunities
2. Capacity building: Mainstreaming a principle-based approach to the SDGs
3. Recognizing Leadership: Providing inspiration through Good Business Practices
4. Policy-Dialogue: Engaging Responsible Business on national SDG Action Plans and Policies
5. Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships: Facilitating collaboration and collective action