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ArcelorMittal Supports Launch of Corporate Responsibility Forum in Liberia
Feb. 23, 2010 ArcelorMittal recently announced the launch of Liberia’s Corporate Responsibility (CR) Forum, a new public-private partnership designed to encourage responsible investment, good corporate citizenship, and collective action for sustainable development.
The CR Forum aims to unite representatives from the private sector, Liberian government, civil society, and international organizations, creating a platform for Liberian businesses to exchange experience, knowledge, research, and best practice in corporate responsibility in an effort to ensure the sustainable development of the country’s economy and infrastructure.
ArcelorMittal notes that two civil wars between 1989 and 2003 devastated Liberia’s economy, leaving nearly 85% of its citizens unemployed and dependent on outside aid. Through the CR Forum, the company aims to return Liberia’s business community to self-sufficiency and provide a model for other developing markets.
“Government cannot, by itself, achieve the vision for Liberia that is enshrined in our Poverty Reduction Strategy. We need the participation of the private sector—one that will bring in sustainable investment and promote good corporate citizenship,” said Liberian President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf.
ArcelorMittal’s total investment into Liberia is expected to be close to $1.5 billion.
“It’s a huge privilege to lead the way in promoting business and business excellence in Liberia. Our vision is to invest in an infrastructure which rebuilds Liberia and unites best practice from both the public and private sectors,” said Joseph Mathews, CEO of ArcelorMittal Liberia and Chairman of the CR Forum Liberia.