A major United Nations Global Compact regional conference brought together senior executives, policymakers and investors in Colombo to advance sustainable business practices across Asia-Pacific.
More than 200 business leaders, policymakers, investors and United Nations officials convened in Colombo on 11–12 August for a flagship regional sustainability forum organized by the UN Global Compact. The event, titled Forward Faster Now | APAC 2026, was hosted by the UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka in collaboration with 14 country networks across the region and aimed to strengthen cross-sector dialogue on sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
The two-day programme featured over 80 high-level speakers representing business, finance, government, the United Nations and civil society sectors. Participants included CEOs, board directors and heads of UN agencies who engaged in plenary discussions, leadership panels and workshops addressing critical business challenges. Key topics covered climate action, sustainable finance, gender equality, supply chain resilience, water management, governance standards, digital innovation, human rights practices, circular economy models and environmental, social and governance data.
A significant highlight was the visit of Sanda Ojiambo, Assistant Secretary-General and CEO of the UN Global Compact, who emphasized Sri Lanka's growing importance within regional sustainability efforts. According to organizers, the forum shifted focus from broad sustainability aspirations to concrete target-setting, decision-making and scalable action. Beyond the public sessions, Ojiambo engaged in bilateral meetings with Sri Lankan business and institutional leaders to strengthen partnerships.
The convening also marked the launch of the Responsible Business Coalition, a new initiative by UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka designed to integrate the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact into professional and industry associations. Organizers stated this approach aims to shift sustainability responsibility from isolated departments to senior leadership and board level across organizations.
