Private sector engagement

Oxfam America partners with different types of organizations to develop innovative solutions to some of the world’s biggest challenges. A growing portion of our work involves collaboration with new allies, including strategic engagement with the private sector.

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While Oxfam has the capacity to do high profile advocacy directed at certain industries, we are equally committed to finding constructive partnerships with private sector leaders. When governments abdicate their duty to regulate the private sector, citizens must work to hold companies accountable; but where companies have recognized their impacts and responsibilities and are prepared to take constructive steps, Oxfam can play a collaborative role in supporting change.

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Oxfam can sometimes be more effective in trying to influence companies' policies and practices as a shareholder rather than an outsider. As a shareholder, Oxfam has the ability to file shareholder resolutions, attend annual shareholder meetings, and more easily engage executives of a company. Oxfam has established a fund for the purchase of shares in targeted companies. As a shareholder advocate, Oxfam makes the case that long-term business interests frequently align with what is good for sustainable development.

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Today, the value of global business in developing countries far exceeds that of development assistance, creating an opportunity for the private sector to use its resources and influence to address global social and economic challenges. Understanding the complex relationship between industry and poverty can lead to more visible value chains, better businesses, and improved communities.The Oxfam Poverty Footprint Methodology builds a culture of measurement and transparency around social impacts and catalyzes transformative innovations to reduce poverty and foster sustainable business models.

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Climate change—which leads to extreme temperatures and increases the rate and severity of droughts and floods—represents an increasing threat to farming communities, which make up the majority of the world’s poor people. In order to survive, these farmers require new methods to help them adapt. To reduce the risk global warming poses to agricultural communities in developing countries, Oxfam has partnered with leading actors in the insurance sector. Together, we have created a weather index insurance project to help farmers reduce their risk of disasters and better prepare for a changing climate.

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