Partnerskaber mellem FN & den private sektor under Global Compact - Fælles rationaler & fælles mål?

Abstract

This thesis explores the rationale of the United Nations and the private sector for engaging in development oriented partnerships under the framework of Global Compact. Since its launch in 2000 Global Compact has been a key forum for combining the resources of the public and the private sectors and civil society, addressing CSR and developmental issues. Combining a critical rationalist and a hermeneutic approach my research design is based on the case study approach and qualitative methods. While this thesis is predominantly empirically driven, I also incorporate theoretical insights of CSR, stakeholder theory, governance and network theory in the analytical framework when exploring the case of the partnership between UNDP and Grundfos in Kenya. This explorative approach draws upon in-depth interviews with key representatives of UNDP and Grundfos. After documenting the rationale of UNDP and Grundfos respectively, I analyse the specific goals of each party with an overriding focus on the significance of different goals in a partnership. Within this analytical framework my research allows me to conclude that the rationale of UNDP for engaging in private partnerships is to facilitate development in 3rd world countries by encouraging foreign direct investments. On the other hand the main reason behind Grundfos’ engagement in the partnership under Global Compact can be described as a mix of ethical, economical rationales in addition to accommodating the expectations of its stakeholders. The partnership between UNDP and Grundfos is founded on an overarching common interest while the individual parties also pursue different goals in parallel. These different goals do not seem to have any impact on the partnership given the strong common interest in securing development and the supply of clean water in Kenya under the framework of the Millennium Development Goals. Based on these specific findings I formulate four general hypotheses regarding the rationales and goals of the UN and the private sector. While these hypotheses are not in scope for empirical testing, I finally propose an analytical framework for a future research project.