Chambers of commerce worldwide have long championed the relationship between peace and business. Business deals are sealed with a handshake, and lasting business relationships are created when handshakes are made in good faith between partners desiring mutual benefits for one another. ICC
The Business for Peace Foundation was established in 2007.
The 2012 Oslo Business for Peace Award will mark the sixth Summit for our Foundation.
Since 2007, the world has come to see business in a new light, demanding greater accountability from businesses. The financial crisis of 2008, followed by the Occupy movement and economic unrest, have made the public better aware of the role played by business in society. In response, numerous businesses around the world have given clear proof of their willingness to engage society as partners, in developing shared value between business and society. We find this encouraging, while realizing that much work remains to be done.
The Business for Peace Foundation is now prepared to rise to the next level in its work. We have already entered into a partnership with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), to search local business communities worldwide for Nominees to the Award. We are at the threshold of accelerating global awareness of the concept of Being Businessworthy.
Through the Fellowship we aim to build this understanding in three areas: (1) Develop the awareness and recognition of the Award and the concept of Being Businessworthy; (2) Support research through awarding Doctoral scholarships, related to how Businessworthy behavior promotes trust, stability and peace; (3) Establish a Resource Center for the sharing of Businessworthy cases and insights, to provide support for businesspersons and others wishing to explore the rewards in long-term conscious capitalism.
We believe the idea of Being Businessworthy, combined with the power of the Business for Peace Award, connects with business people around the world, and motivates them to rethink how they apply their business energy.
Marrying strong business performance with reaching for a higher purpose can rebuild the trust proposition between business and society, and help promote stability and peace. This is the essence of Being Businessworthy, which we define as applying your business energy ethically and responsibly with the purpose of creating economic value that also creates value for society.
Per L. Saxegaard, Chairman,
The Business for Peace Foundation
