Trying Not to Make a Point: Hamas War Triggers New Kind of ESG Challenge for Business

 


"The complex geopolitical dynamics underpinning the deadly Israel-Hamas war are putting pressure on the workplace as employers face calls to take a stance on the conflict, a demand that risks fueling discord among workers and inviting litigation." - Bloomberg Law, October 23, 2023

Workers and potential plaintiffs aren't the only ones who can stir up trouble for business during the Middle East military conflict. There are myriad other categories of force fields which could put corporations in upheaval if they take the "wrong" stance or even remain silent.

In a sense the growing upsets in the Middle East are creating a new form of the ESG (Environmental Social Governance) dynamics which overtook America. And, as with the original ESG, the stakes could be high. It is well known what making the "wrong point" did to businesses such as Bud Light and Target. Since then more businesses are backing off from making values statements.

During the first version of ESG law firms found a role advising business how to navigate those perilous waters. Paul Weiss was the first to develop a specialized ESG practice. Quickly other law firms parachuted in with their own kinds of ESG practices. Corporations established in-house ESG units. Financial firms not only began new investments approaches targeted at ESG values. Some even conjured up the role of the Sustainability Officer.

Meanwhile, in my coaching most clients have struggled not to be dragged into saying anything of substance about what is going on in the Middle East. Yet, the pressure on them to take a stance could increase in the 2024 political campaigns.

Overall the old forms of ESG are dying out. Here is my article on the Post-ESG era published in O'Dwyer's Public Relations.  The Financial Times essentially published an obit for ESG.

In order to be relevant in the marketplace will law firms such as Paul Weiss have to reposition and repackage their full-service ESG practices? Or, will they cancel them? For Paul Weiss the practice was a platform for other kinds of outreach such as funding ESG-type education. That is the ESG+Law Institute. Will that survive as it is? In the naming game it can be problematic to define a service too narrowly. In changing times such a moniker can become a liability.

Data or the gut for your careers and communications? Both of course. Complimentary consultation with intuitive coach, content-creator, and Tarot reader Jane Genova (text 203-468-8579, janegenova374@gmail.com).

 


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