Library | ESG issues
Weapons & Armaments
Weapons are objects designed to injure, kill, or defeat, while armaments refer to military weapons and equipment. They are controversial due to their potential to harm civilians, fuel armed conflicts, and contribute to global instability. Certain weapons, such as cluster munitions and nuclear arms, face international divestment efforts due to long-term humanitarian and environmental consequences. Many investors exclude companies involved in weapons production, arms exports, or dealings with oppressive regimes due to ethical, legal, and reputational concerns.
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Towards sustainability position on defence investments
The report sets a pragmatic policy on defence investments for Towards Sustainability-labelled funds, permitting defensive, non-lethal and dual-use activities with strict ESG due diligence, while excluding weapons producers. It affirms defence funding as primarily a government responsibility.
Commission unveils the white paper for european defence and the rearm europe plan readiness 2030
The report outlines the EU’s White Paper on European Defence and the ReArm Europe Plan, targeting defence readiness by 2030 through closing capability gaps, strengthening the defence industrial base, and mobilising over €800 billion via public, EU, and private funding mechanisms.
BPI France: European Defence Bond Framework
Bpifrance’s European Defence Bond Framework defines principles for issuing use-of-proceeds bonds financing eligible defence-sector projects, mainly SMEs, to support European sovereignty. It details eligibility criteria, exclusions, ESG safeguards, governance, reporting, and proceeds management, while stating the bonds are not ICMA-aligned sustainable instruments.
Mapping the international presence of the world's largest arms companies
SIPRI maps the global footprint of the 15 largest arms companies, identifying 400 majority-owned foreign entities. International presence aligns with geopolitical ties and major arms markets. US and European firms dominate; Chinese and Russian companies show limited overseas reach.
Agreement on international responsible investment in the insurance sector: ESG investment framework for the theme: Controversial weapons and the trade in weapons with high-risk countries
The framework guides insurers in managing ESG risks from controversial weapons and weapons trade with high-risk countries. It outlines international standards, investment screening criteria and due diligence processes, including risk assessment, voting, engagement and exclusion. It also provides guidance on monitoring, accountability and public reporting.
Responsible investing in defence, security and resilience
The NATO Innovation Fund advocates removing financial exclusions on defence to bolster European security. The report recommends reforming procurement for rapid dual-use technology adoption and implementing a ‘Responsible Use Framework’ to ensure ethical development of emerging capabilities like AI and autonomous systems.
Finance for war: Finance for peace: How values based banks foster peace in a world of increasing conflict
The report analyses global financial links to arms production, showing significant funding for weapons despite rising conflict. It contrasts this with values-based banks, particularly GABV members, which largely exclude arms financing, arguing divestment supports peace, reduces risk, and aligns finance with social and environmental objectives.
Moving away from mass destruction:109 exclusions of nuclear weapon producers
The report reviews 109 financial institutions with policies excluding nuclear weapon producers, assessing policy scope and implementation. It finds 55 institutions apply comprehensive exclusions, while others retain gaps or exposures, reflecting growing financial-sector alignment with the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.
The use of the Lavender in Gaza and the law of targeting: AI-decision support systems and facial recognition technology
The report analyses Israel’s alleged use of the ‘Lavender’ AI decision-support system and facial recognition in Gaza, assessing compliance with international humanitarian law. It highlights risks from inaccuracy, bias, automation and opacity, concluding that commanders must retain judgement and verification to meet targeting obligations.
Rearm europe, rearm finance: What role for responsible investment in the financing of european defense?
Mirova assesses Europe’s defence rearmament and examines how responsible investors could contribute without undermining ESG principles. It argues for selective financing, strict exclusions, and innovative tools such as defence bonds, while maintaining focus on environmental transition and European sovereignty.
International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is an independent humanitarian organisation providing protection and assistance to people affected by armed conflict. It promotes international humanitarian law, conducts emergency relief operations, and supports detainees, civilians, and missing persons worldwide through neutral, impartial action, with global reach and sustained operational presence.
War and sanctions database
The War and Sanctions portal, managed by Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence, is an open-access database detailing individuals, entities, and assets linked to Russia’s military activities. It supports due diligence and compliance efforts by providing verified information on sanctions, war-related logistics, and foreign components in weaponry.
Navigating portfolio exposure to conflict-affected and high-risk areas: Practical guidance for investor engagement with companies
This report offers practical guidance for investors engaging companies on managing conflict-affected and high-risk area (CAHRA) exposure. It highlights legal obligations, best practices in heightened human rights due diligence, and governance strategies, drawn from pilot dialogues with tech and renewable energy firms. Recommendations target risk mitigation aligned with global standards.
Material insights
Material Insights is a tool to help companies and stakeholders manage environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks in mineral supply chains. It provides data-driven insights on specific minerals, supporting responsible sourcing and sustainability efforts in the raw materials sector.
International Peace Information Service (IPIS)
IPIS Research (International Peace Information Service) is an independent research institute focusing on conflict mapping, natural resources, and business and human rights in sub-Saharan Africa. Through in-depth analysis and field research, IPIS provides valuable insights for policymakers, NGOs, and businesses seeking to understand complex issues in these regions.
Investor toolkit on human rights and armed conflict: Managing human rights impacts and international humanitarian law implications before, during and after armed conflicts arise
This investor toolkit provides guidance on managing human rights and international humanitarian law (IHL) risks before, during, and after armed conflicts. It helps investors identify and address these risks in their portfolios, ensuring compliance with legal obligations and promoting responsible investment practices.
