Corporations, ESG and society

This unit explores significant changes in real world expectations of the relationship between corporations and society, as exemplified by the current emphasis on environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations in corporate governance and finance. These changing expectations are reflected in legal and regulatory developments that impose obligations on corporations in relation to important socio-political issues, including climate change, human rights and social justice issues. Corporations and corporate activity are therefore no longer concerns solely for law students who envisage a career in corporate and commercial law. Students who embark on careers in business, government, international agencies and the practice of public, environmental and human rights law will also be required to engage with the law’s increasing expectations of corporations and their leaders. This Unit will prepare students for this challenge.