In a world facing complex challenges, business integrity and strong governance are the cornerstones of building resilient institutions and a fair, sustainable future. When businesses, governments, and civil society organizations come together to uphold ethical practices and foster transparency, they not only reduce systemic risks like corruption but also build lasting trust in the institutions that shape our societies.
This May, join us in Sofia for the BUSINESS INTEGRITY AND SUSTAINABILITY FORUM, a special edition event hosted by the Bulgarian Network of the UN Global Compact, in partnership with the UN Global Compact and Transparency International Bulgaria. The forum combines a high-level conference and a meaningful gala celebration, marking 15 years since the founding of the Bulgarian Network and 25 years of the UN Global Compact.
Part I: The Conference – From Principles to Practice
The conference will bring together business leaders, compliance and risk experts, civil society actors, and government representatives for a powerful exchange of ideas and tools to advance business integrity and collective action.
Key Components:
- Interactive Workshop: “From Theory to Action: Risk Assessment and the ACCA Methodology” – hands-on session introducing participants to the six-step approach of the Anti-Corruption Collective Action (ACCA) framework of UNGC, with global examples and lessons tailored to the Bulgarian context. Structured exercise for identifying, assessing, and mitigating corruption risks in practice.
- Panel Discussion: “Collective Action: Anti-Corruption and Transformational Governance” – a multi-stakeholder dialogue exploring how businesses and civil society can drive systemic change through collaboration and ethical leadership.
This is the final installment of the broader integrity-focused Expert lab series, building toward practical, scalable models for ethical business.
Part II: Gala Celebration – 15 Years of Leadership
Following the conference, we will shift from strategy to celebration as we commemorate 15 years of the UN Global Compact Network Bulgaria and honor the shared achievements of our members and partners. The gala will feature:
- Fireside Conversation: “15 Years of Success – and What’s Next” reflecting on the journey of the Bulgarian Network and its vision for the future.
- Award Ceremony: Presentation of the “Integrity & Sustainability – 15 Years of Leadership” awards, recognizing organizations and individuals who have contributed to advancing ethical business in Bulgaria
- Reception & Networking Cocktail
The evening will be hosted by Donika Rizova, experienced journalist and writer known for her work in advocating for civic causes and sustainability.
Why This Forum Matters
2025 is symbolic year: it marks not only 15 years of the Bulgarian Network but also 25 years of the UN Global Compact and 80 years of the United Nations amidst profound global turbulences. At this moment of reflection, the Forum stands as a platform for meaningful dialogue, practical learning, and shared celebration—uniting stakeholders around a vision of a just and sustainable future.
Target Audience:
- Business leaders, directors, compliance and risk professionals
- Legal and audit departments
- NGOs, public sector institutions, and academia
- UNGC members and partners
- All stakeholders committed to advancing integrity, transparency, and collective action
REGISTRATION
The event is open for UN Global Compact participants and partners.
Recommended number per organisation: 2 participants. There is no fee, but participation is possible upon confirmation following the registration form.
Please note that there are limited seats available, and submitting an application does not guarantee selection. In our selections, we aim to ensure an even representation of all stakeholders.
Stay tuned for more details!
Contact us at: secretariat@unglobalcompact.bg to understand more about the partnership options for the Forum.
