"Sustainable development"

is defined as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs" (Brundtland Commission report for the UN, 1987). It therefore involves striking a long-term balance between environmental, social and economic concerns.

"Corporate Responsibility"

is the contribution of businesses to sustainable economic development and to the interests of society by taking responsibility for the direct and indirect impact of their activities on various stakeholders, including: customers, suppliers, employees, shareholders, communities and the environment. The "responsible corporation" lies at the crossroads between social development, respect for the environment and economic performance.

With the twin concepts of sustainable development and Corporate Responsibility, society recognizes the essential role of businesses in its own development and expects this economic enabler to be leveraged today for the benefit of future generations as well.

Why does AXA believe Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility warrant strategic attention?

• It is our inherent responsibility: as one of the world's largest corporations, we have a role as an international corporate citizen; and as a company whose business is to protect people over the long term, we have a responsibility to help build a more sustainable society.
• It is essential to build the trust of employees (CR is a key driver of employee motivation and engagement, and influences graduates' choice of employers), and the trust of customers, as CR is an increasingly significant driver of brand trust.
• It is a risk / opportunity management imperative: CR enables AXA to cut costs and to limit certain business and operational risks, while maximising market opportunities in emerging or future commercial segments to generate new revenue streams.

AXA's strategy is to place Corporate Responsibility both at the heart of its business as well as its day to day interactions with its stakeholders. It is through adopting a responsible behaviour, as well as through sustainability added-value products and services, that the Group is able to most effectively participate in social, environmental and economic progress.

 The Community
Act as a responsible corporate citizen by sharing our professional expertise with the community, innovating in the area of employment and sponsoring philanthropic initiatives.

 Our Shareholders
 Achieve operating performance that ranks among the industry peers, in order to create lasting value, and strive to furnish accurate financial information.

The Environment
Contribute to environment preservation efforts by making available our environmental risk management capacity and promoting environmentally sound practices in the workplace.

Our Employees
Ensure professional fulfillment by offering a supportive and respectful workplace where people are empowered and the continuous development of competencies is encouraged.

Our Suppliers
Maintain excellent relationships with suppliers by adhering to a set of clearly defined procurement guidelines and promoting ongoing dialogue

Click here to know more about AXA Corporate Responsibility.