Ms Jeanne McDonagh:

I want to talk about corporate justice. In Ireland, migration, housing, climate change, socioeconomic and political upheaval impact our consumers, employees, friends and family, as well as wider society. Business has a key role to play in how beneficial change comes about and it can improve how we all live now and into the future. Corporate social justice is not just about giving back to society or having a social licence to trade. It is about transforming society because the urgent pursuit of economic and social justice, be it the eradication of income inequality to mass migration issues to LGBTQ+ rights and other areas, is the responsibility of us all. This socially charged world is requiring companies to re-examine their CSR policy. Not only do consumers demand it but employees do too. For example, 74% of customers believe that ethical corporate practices and values are an important reason to choose a brand. Moreover, 65% believe organisations should be responsible for leaving their people net better off through work. It has evolved from corporate social responsibility to corporate social justice, which is a vital reframing which hones in on the lived experience of people who live on its margins. At the heart lies a profound commitment to understanding and responding to the lived experience of marginalised groups. It asks that businesses not only acknowledge their societal impact but actively strive to mitigate harm and promote equity.

By fostering an inclusive workplace culture, supporting marginalised communities and advocating for meaningful change, companies can become a catalyst for social progress. Companies are not islands with a silent existence but by dint of operating in a place, their actions cause ripples throughout their communities. It is not just about painting charities' walls or making donations or winning awards but is about a company-wide, leader-led holistic approach that is committed to positive change in their communities and society in general from the front door to the top floor. It goes beyond charity work and philanthropy to focus on the experience of groups disadvantaged by, or worse, harmed by society. It is a way of working with the goal of explicitly doing good by all.