05 – ISO/UNDP Guidelines for Sustainable Development Goals - ISO/UNDP PAS 53002:2024
In previous write-ups, we introduced readers to ISO/UNDP PAS 53002:2024, covering its purpose, an overview of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the importance of achieving these goals, a holistic approach to sustainable development, the foundational concept of the PDCA cycle, and the scope, normative references, terms, and definitions. The last write-up discussed the context of the organization. In this write-up, we will explore Clause 5, which provides guidelines on identifying and engaging with interested parties.
Types of Interested Parties
Clause 5 introduces two types of interested
parties:
1. Those
who experience impacts
2. Those
who contribute to impacts
Both groups are important for the organization as
they help optimize contributions toward the SDGs. The organization must
determine the relevant interested parties, understand their needs and
expectations, and establish how to address and manage them.
Key Guidelines for Engaging with Interested Parties
The organization should have a process to identify
and engage with interested parties. The process should ensure an understanding
of:
·
Actual and expected beneficial or adverse impacts
of the organization’s activities on interested parties.
·
The relative significance of different impacts and
sustainable development issues to the parties.
·
The needs and expectations of interested parties.
·
How these parties will be affected if expected
impacts are not achieved.
·
Tolerance levels for unexpected impacts.
To manage this process, a committee or a group of
selected officials, well-versed in the organization’s context, should be
formed. This group should ideally include individuals from various
functions—such as environmental management, legal, marketing, and
manufacturing—who have a deep understanding of the organization's operations,
impacts, and objectives. A cross-functional team can provide a holistic view of
the direct and indirect impacts on interested parties.
A Dynamic and Inclusive Engagement Process
Stakeholder needs, expectations, and impacts are
not static; they evolve over time due to changing statutory, regulatory,
market, and societal conditions. The committee should ensure continuous
dialogue with stakeholders, using regular surveys, focus group discussions, and
feedback mechanisms.
Managing Tolerance for Unexpected Impacts
Understanding the tolerance levels of interested
parties is essential. Some stakeholders may tolerate deviations or delays,
while others may not. By gauging this, the organization can better manage risks
and have contingency plans to mitigate potential adverse reactions.
Transparent Communication
Communication with stakeholders should be
transparent. The organization should regularly update stakeholders on findings,
needs, expectations, and the steps taken to address them.
Special Focus on Under-Recognized and Vulnerable
Groups
ISO/UNDP PAS 53002:2024 emphasizes the specific
needs of under-recognized and vulnerable people and communities. These groups
have historically faced marginalization based on factors such as race,
ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or socioeconomic status.
They are often the most directly affected by social injustices and should be
given special attention in achieving sustainable development.
The following are key principles the organization
should follow:
1. Understanding
Under-Recognized and Vulnerable Groups:
These groups encompass communities historically marginalized due to race,
gender, disability, etc. They are disproportionately impacted by societal
inequalities and must be included in decision-making processes.
2. Identifying
and Engaging These Stakeholders:
Organizations should actively engage under-recognized groups, ensuring that
their experiences and concerns are central to addressing social issues. Their
inclusion should go beyond mere representation.
3. Collaborative
Action:
Solutions to social justice issues should be developed in collaboration with
these communities. Empowering marginalized groups strengthens the
organization's ability to create lasting change.
4. Addressing
Vulnerability:
Organizations must proactively identify vulnerable groups and address the
factors contributing to their marginalization, ensuring their policies uplift
and protect these individuals.
5. Building
Equitable Systems:
Organizations should work toward eliminating systemic barriers and
discrimination, ensuring that resources and opportunities are equitably
distributed.
6. Sustainable
Commitment to Inclusion:
Inclusion is an ongoing effort, not a one-time goal. Regular monitoring and
updates are essential to ensure the needs of under-recognized groups are met,
contributing to sustainable development and more just societies.
Examples of Under-Recognized and Vulnerable
Communities are:
o
Women and Girls:
Gender-based discrimination still limits opportunities in many sectors.
o
People Living with Disabilities:
Barriers often exclude them from full participation in society.
o
Indigenous Peoples:
Historical exploitation and loss of cultural identity contribute to their
marginalization.
o
Migrants and Refugees:
Migration often exposes individuals to precarious conditions.
o
Other Vulnerable Groups:
This includes elderly, poor, displaced individuals, and minorities.
In the next write-up, we will delve deeper into the
two types of interested parties: those who experience impacts and those who
contribute to impacts.
Regards,
Keshav Ram Singhal
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