Enhancing stakeholder inclusion for long-term value creation and sustainability

Modern businesses face increasing scrutiny to integrate diverse stakeholder perspectives into their decision-making processes. Based on in-depth literature review and interviews with practitioners and leaders involved in stakeholder management in the public and private sector, the team of our Young Professionals Program has published a white paper proposing the Stakeholder Inclusion Framework: a roadmap designed to embed stakeholder interests — ranging from employees and local communities to future generations and the environment — within corporate governance structures. At its core is the concept of a Societal Council, an advisory body representing internal and external stakeholders, tasked with guiding strategy, decision-making, and accountability.

By adopting the Societal Council model, organisations can transition toward inclusive governance, fostering trust, collaboration, and innovation. This approach aligns with regulatory requirements such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) while addressing societal expectations and sustainability goals.

The white paper details how this model builds on successful case studies from global corporations and integrates theoretical insights and practical exercises. Businesses embracing this approach will be better positioned to drive sustainable growth, foster trust, and create long-term value for all stakeholders.

About the Young Professionals Program

One of the initiatives of UN Global Compact NL is the Young Professionals Program (YPP), a 12-month action-based learning program designed to empower young future leaders. Through this program, a multidisciplinary team collaborates on a project aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Participants gain valuable insights into sustainability concepts while honing their leadership and teamwork skills.

While we are currently no longer taking applications for the YPP, we are excited to announce that applications for the SDG Innovation Accelerator for Young Professionals are open! Starting in February 2025, this six-month programme offers another opportunity for young professionals to engage in transformative learning and contribute to innovative solutions for the SDGs.