UN Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI)

We independently evaluated the PRI’s achievements and challenges on their 10th anniversary

The Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) initiative was founded based on the notion that investment decision-making did not sufficiently reflect the tenets of sustainable development. Over time, it brought together over 1500 investors and industry experts from all over the world, aiming to contribute to the development of a more sustainable global financial system. Steward Redqueen was invited to independently evaluate the performance of PRI.

Based on over 40 interviews, a survey filled out by over 450 stakeholders and extensive desk research, we have evaluated the impact of the PRI over the last decade and worked out recommendations for the years to come.  Our research applauds the PRI for putting responsible investment on the agenda of investors and policy makers and becoming the leading global investors’ platform for learning, engagement and the sharing of best practices on responsible investment. This is a remarkable achievement in only 10 years. However, while there is now significant awareness about responsible investment, implementation stills lacks depth: genuine integration of the Principles will require additional efforts.

We recommended the PRI to create more clarity and consensus about the purpose and ambition, to enhance focus and value added, and to improve the accountability process. In view of the global challenges we face 10 years on, and their impact on societies and the investment world, we argued that putting the Principles into practice is no longer something to aspire to, but now the only ‘rational’ choice facing investors.

For the report, click here.