The UN Global Compact and UN Women announced last month that 1,000 companies have signed up to their Women's empowerment principles. These seven principles, launched in 2010 with 39 companies, require businesses to take steps to advance gender equality throughout their operations. The 1,000-strong group spans diverse sectors, from telecommunications to pharmaceuticals, with many operating across the global South.
While several principles - such as cracking down on harassment and promoting female managers - echo previous gender equality campaigns, one initiative stands out as unique. Principle 5, on enterprise development, includes a commitment for companies to source supplies from women-owned businesses.
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