Justin D’Agostino, the Chief Executive Officer of global law firm Herbert Smith Freehills has joined over 1,000 CEOs to endorse United Nations’ Statement on Renewed Global Cooperation and pledge to unite in the business of a better world.

The Statement includes signatures from some of the world’s largest brands along with hundreds of other large, small and medium-sized enterprises participating in the UN Global Compact (UNGC), the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative. It states: “We, the business peoples, recognise that peace, justice and strong institutions are beneficial to the long-term viability of our organisations and are foundational for upholding the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Now is our opportunity to learn from our collective experiences to realign behind the mission of the UN and steer our world onto a more equitable, inclusive and sustainable path. We are in this together — and we are united in the business of a better world.”

Justin D’Agostino commented:

“We are proud to be supporting the United Nations’ pledge to multilateralism. Global commitment to corporate sustainability from the business sector is particularly critical during this period of unprecedented disruption and global transformation. This common goal aligns with our firm’s objective: to be an ethical, inclusive and transparent business. Together with our clients, and other responsible businesses, we strive to make the world a better place.”

Emma Cooke, Global Head of Citizenship at the firm, added:

“As a firm that operates globally and advises major businesses in almost every economic sector, we recognise our ability to contribute to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. With just 10 years to go, we are pleased to play our part in the Decade of Action accelerating sustainable solutions to address the world’s biggest challenges.” 

The CEO Statement also supports the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 16: to promote peace, justice and strong institutions. The Statement of support – including the full list of CEO supporters – was presented to UN Secretary-General António Guterres by Sanda Ojiambo, the CEO & Executive Director of the UN Global Compact, at the opening of the Private Sector Forum on the sidelines of the High-level meeting of the General Assembly to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the United Nations. See full list of signatories here.

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