Good Governance, Ethics as Foundations for SDGs

Ethics and governance are often seen as a set of rules, morals, systems and standards to be complied with.
However, ethics is more about moving towards value-driven leadership and not merely a ticking off exercise.

For sustainable development goals (SDGs) to be effectively implemented, those given stewardship over human and other resources need to abide by a set of ethical value-based standards. Standards of dignity, fairness, justice and respect form the bedrock of SDGs.

Yet, it is important to note that each country has its own definition of morality and governance.

There is no universal morality of human goodness that will make all countries and individuals pursue social inclusion, equity, economic growth and environmental change to attain the SDGs.

Ultimately, leaders are accountable for their actions and the decisions they make, irrespective of the moral philosophy they use to govern them.

There is a Latin saying: ‘Primum non nocere’, which means ‘first, do no harm’.

This term provides guidance when making decisions, regardless of what the law says.

Organisations who use this principle will, for example, not export timber, even if regulations allow for it, because of possible negative effects emanating from deforestation.

Apart from leaders being held accountable, they need to pass a few tests. The first test is that of appetite, then instant fame, and lastly, greed and power.

If leaders are greedy, they will make decisions that seek to only satisfy their greed.

Though some say ethics and governance thrive in strong institutions, I believe institutions are made up of people. If the people leading those institutions are corrupt, there will be a dissonance in policies, regulations and strategies that seek to achieve the SDGs.

If leaders who govern the resources required to achieve the SDGs are racists, for example, the exploitation of human beings, which has been fundamental to the development process of the developed countries, will continue.

There is also a new form of exploitation that has reared its ugly head, known as green colonisation.

Because of the greed and thirst for power, some developed countries will use unethical means to gain natural resources, through corrupt African leaders, taking developing countries further back in fulfilling their development goals.

That is why there is a need to critically reflect on how development has taken place over the years. Millions of Africans’ human basic rights have been exploited under the pretext of religion and other moral philosophies, like the libertarian philosophy.

I agree with Meleckidzedeck Khayes, who said “the implementation of SDGs requires a deep ethical reflection interrogating the values, principles, and implementation practices that will be pursued to exploit emergent opportunities and address barriers that will enable the achievements of SDGs in 2030”.

Developing countries are still struggling with the first five SDGs. Reports given to the United Nations have shown that there is still no comprehensive progress done to address the SDGs, because global efforts have been insufficient to deliver the transformative change required.

In conclusion, there are questions corporates ought to ponder when considering ethical and governance frameworks, such as: What values drive your corporation’s policies? Whose interests should be served? What impact do you want to make with the current governance policies in place? And, are your boards and management team composed correctly, with the right diversity in place?

Consider whether your organisation is a responsible steward for financial, human, intellectual, natural and manufactured capital too.

• Morna Ikosa is a senior corporate communications and brand reputation strategist. Reach her at micommunicationscc@gmail.com

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