Prof. Andreas Georgoulias at B20 Conference on RBC and AC in Infrastructure Development

Dr. Andreas Georgoulias was an invited panelist in the B20 Conference on Responsible Business Conduct and Anti-Corruption in Infrastructure Development that took place in Berlin, on 27th January 2017.

Background and agenda of conference:

Under Germany`s G20/B20 presidency a B20 Cross-Thematic Group (CTG) on Responsible Business Conduct (RBC) and Anti-Corruption (AC) has been initiated. The creation of this extended CTG underlines the commitment of business not only to join the fight against corruption, but also to recognize the responsibility arising from the important role of business in society. Since the world has limited resources, with a limited ability to regenerate, it is vital for business to initiate a cultural change of business behavior. Compliance efforts help to foster corporate accountability and serve to support consumer and investor confidence, which is necessary for the proper functioning of a market economy. RBC is inviting companies to become positive actors of change, emphasizing opportunities rather than risks. In addition, the B20 features a Task Force on Financing Growth and Infrastructure.

Large infrastructure projects have substantial impact on the society as a whole, by shaping social, economic and environmental conditions. Making infrastructure investments (more) sustainable will bring major benefits to society, through enhanced inclusiveness, transparency, environmental protection and climate-friendliness. Promoting sustainable infrastructure development contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) overall by simultaneously ensuring inclusive growth, climate-friendliness, environmental consciousness /awareness and social sustainability. Sustainable Infrastructure therefore relates especially to SDG 8 “Promoting sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all”, SDG 9 “Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation” and SDG 12 “Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns”. Anti-Corruption is a cross-cutting issue that affects many SDGs. International development cooperation has made substantial efforts to coordinate the alignment of large infrastructure projects with the above mentioned sustainability agenda. For people who’s going to the conference from another states, they can find get together with another people to stay in near obx rentals all together being cheaper and more practical that staying in a hotel