Aiming for progress in times of uncertainty, the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) issued a NEW CALL TO ACTION TO THE G20at the beginning of November 2022. IFAC calls on G20 leaders to cooperate to solve pressing long-term issues. It highlights the interconnection between global cooperation, the sustainability agenda, the need for strong public financial management and the fight against corruption. IFAC stresses that with the rise of widespread economic and political ambiguity in 2022, it is vital to work together to tackle challenges, strengthen global economies, and have sustainable societies.

Stephen Hamlet, CEO of Russell Bedford International commented: ‘Russell Bedford International welcomes and supports IFAC’s new call to action. Our global professional services network is closely monitoring the international developments on sustainability. We are increasingly taking action to inform, equip and empower our people on related matters. With respect to sustainability, we have also RECENTLY LAUNCHED A "SOCIAL IMPACT COMMITTEE” which brings together network members from across the world. Its objective is to drive and co-ordinate our work towards expanding our knowledge, competencies and corporate responsibility on sustainability-related matters, addressing the relevant environmental, social and governance aspects.’

A panel discussion on sustainability took place during the 39th Russell Bedford Annual Global Conference that was held in Vienna, Austria on 19 - 23 October 2022. The panellists expressed ideas, shared their own experiences and suggested potential actions for the future. Michael Sweeney, Chair of the Russell Bedford Social Impact Committee and Director of Adelaide-based member firm Lee Green & Co, noted: ‘I was very pleased to see how the panel discussion engaged our conference attendees. The Social Impact Committee has proved to be an extremely useful and engaging platform for raising awareness and collaboration amongst members of Russell Bedford, and is certainly a step in the right direction. We are encouraged to continue our efforts for positive influence towards sustainable value creation and a more sustainable and fairer world for all. I look forward to more collective initiatives and widespread action across our network.’

Stephen Hamlet, CEO of Russell Bedford International added: ‘At Russell Bedford, we will continue to work on our sustainability-related goals and action plan. Our aim is for our people, and their clients, to go further together for a better future.’