Scientific article
English

Sustainable Purpose-Driven Enterprises. Where do we stand in Switzerland and what could be a possible policy option?

Publication date2023
Abstract

Social enterprises (in a broad sense), including those launched by social (or sustainable) entrepreneurs (or Sustainable Purpose-Driven Entities) are important players to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Developing a legal framework that allows them to prosper has been a priority of the European Commission since 2010. These entities have recently been endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly. The Federal Council has, to date, refused any legislative intervention, arguing that Swiss law is flexible enough to incorporate such entities. Reliance on voluntary commitments and on the flexibility offered by the law prevents however homogeneity and thus to sort the enterprises that are truly sustainable from the others. Besides, a closer legal analysis reveals that available legal forms under Swiss law are either unappealing for investors and donors or present uncertainty as regards to the validity and enforceability of provisions of the articles of association that give primacy to the societal aim and provide for dividend distribution constraints. A (legislative or normative) intervention in Switzerland seems highly advisable. The author presents a possible policy option partially inspired by foreign legislations in vigor or proposals presented abroad that could serve as a solid basis for additional policy levers. The suggested opting- in legal qualification safeguards the freedom of organization that is in line with Swiss tradition.

Citation (ISO format)
NERI-CASTRACANE, Giulia. Sustainable Purpose-Driven Enterprises. Where do we stand in Switzerland and what could be a possible policy option? In: Schweizerische Zeitschrift für Wirtschafts- und Finanzmarktrecht, 2023, n° 4, p. 416–430.
Main files (1)
Article (Published version)
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Identifiers
  • PID : unige:173602
Journal ISSN1662-8705
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6downloads

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