International Working Group: Events

The IWG annually hosts a Spring and a Fall Symposium for members to get together, discuss opportunities and developments in international socially responsible investing, and hear from invited speakers about up-and-coming issues of concern.

2009 Spring Symposium


“The Role of Business in Fragile States ”

There is increasing concern within the SRI community about the role of their investments in fragile states and conflict zones. Our Spring Symposium will provide background on the current political and commercial environments and explore strategies for socially conscious investors in these vulnerable communities.

The International Working Group will address this topic through a 4-part webinar series taking place every Thursday in March from 2-3:30pm EST.



March 5th: Defining the Challenge: A Review of the Political, Economic, and Social Challenges Facing Businesses Operating in Fragile States or Conflict Zones

This panel, the introduction to the series, will feature representatives from different sectors and perspectives to begin asking the questions: What are the realities facing businesses working in fragile states? What can we reasonably expect from these large businesses in terms of corporate responsibility? What are the "best practices?" What are the "red flags?"


March 12th: Case Studies: Companies Operating in War Situations and Other Communities Unfriendly to Business in Fragile States

This panel will feature speakers from corporations with direct experience of operating in fragile and conflict states.  They will speak to how their companies operate in specific countries and communities around the world.


March 19th: Examining Vulture Funds and Sovereign Debt Alleviation

Do vulture funds prey on nations loaded with sovereign debt, or do they perform a needed function in the natural cycle of global financing? Several experts will present their opinions on this issue, as well as discuss legislative measures introduced to Congress.

Webinar Recording

  • Kathleen Sengstock, Rep. Maxine Waters (CA), US House of Representatives
  • Tamara Gaw, TransAfrica Forum
    Powerpoint Presentation
  • Felix Salmon, Portfolio.com


April 16th: On the Ground Examples of Non-Extractive Companies Operating in Fragile States and Conflict Zones

Although the focus tends to be on extractive companies, non-extractive corporations operate in fragile states and conflict zones as well. This week’s panel addresses some of the unique issues and challenges faced by businesses in the non-extractive industries, and will include companies with on-the-ground experience.

Webinar Recording

 

Past Events:

Agendas, podcasts, and presentations from previous IWG symposiums.

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