657 Companies removed from 2014 UN Global Compact

The UN Global Compact expelled 372 companies in the second half of 2014 for failure to communicate sustainability progress for at least two consecutive years, bringing the total number of expelled companies in 2014 to 657.

However, the number of companies committing to sustainability principles by joining the UN Global Compact continues to exceed the number of expulsions, with 729 companies from around the world joining the initiative from July through December 2014.

Business participants in the Global Compact commit to make the 10 principles part of their business strategies and day-to-day operations. As an integral part of their commitment, companies must issue an annual COP, a public disclosure to stakeholders (investors, consumers, civil society, governments) on progress made in implementing the 10 principles, and in supporting broader UN goals and issues.

Companies that fail to submit a COP for two consecutive years have not fulfilled their commitment to the Global Compact and face expulsion from the initiative.

The UN Global Compact expelled 99 companies in the first half of 2013.