BAE SYSTEMS
Defence is a controversial business. Some people believe the industry should not exist at all, while others see it as vital to national security. This means it is essential for BAE Systems, the defence and aerospace company, to demonstrate strong corporate responsibility (CR) performance.
We have worked with the company since 2001, helping it launch its CR programme and its first performance report. Since then we have helped structure its reporting around dialogue with stakeholders. For example, the 2002 report featured an email exchange between the chief operating officer and the director of the campaigning organisation, Saferworld. Their discussion focused on defence exports and control.
We helped BAE Systems to include the views of prominent external stakeholders in the 2005 report. A trade unionist challenged the company on its employment practices; an ethics expert gave her view on how to eradicate bribery and corruption; and a socially responsible investor outlined expectations around disclosure of political lobbying and donations.
BAE Systems was recognised by the judges at the 2005 Awards for Sustainability Reporting from the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). They said it was the only company to explicitly acknowledge bribery as an issue, rather than just reporting on policies and systems.
About BAE
| • | BAE Systems is a transatlantic aerospace and defence company |
| • | It employs 100,000 people |
| • | It has around £15 billion annual sales |
www.baesystems.com
BAE is a member of our Global CSR Who's Who opinion leader engagement
club.
