The First Citizens building on Main Street in downtown Columbia, South Carolina, reflects the afternoon sun and sky.
17.5K
As global financial markets prioritize transparency, sustainability, and corporate accountability, countries worldwide are integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards into their financial regulations. The adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) S1 and S2, developed by the International Accounting Standards Board by over 20 jurisdictions reflects a decisive shift towards structured sustainability disclosure frameworks. In contrast, Lebanon remains an outlier. The country lacks a formal ESG regulatory framework based on IFRS sustainability reporting, and government driven ESG policies. This regulatory void risks further isolating Lebanon from international capital markets, making it increasingly difficult to attract foreign investment and sustainable financing. Private sector initiatives, such as business sustainability and compliance consultancy firm Capital Concept[1]’s effort to engage 100 Lebanese companies in ESG integration, demonstrate growing awareness. Capital Concept has increased the value of their portfolio by 23 percent, from $27 billion to $34 billion, proving that corporations are eager
Dr. Zeina Zeidan is a governance advisor and board chair with over 20 years of experience in financial strategy, ESG, and institutional reform. She is the founder of TAT Essentials Consulting LLC, based in the United States, and serves on many corporate boards. She is the Vice President of Transparency International Lebanon. She was the first woman to chair the board of a financial institution in Lebanon and holds a doctorate in Management Sciences from Université Aix-Marseille III
