An Open Society is Bonnier’s Biggest Imprint

It is by contributing to more open and well-informed societies that Bonnier can make the biggest imprint in sustainability.

As a family-owned company with a history spanning more than 200 years, we acknow­ledge that long-term vision is a starting point for how we run our business. We are responsible for the impact we have on the outside world, and we want to be a positive force in the communities in which we operate.

We want to contribute to a sustainable society. The world faces major challenges linked to health, equality and climate change, among others. The UN’s 17 sustainable development goals show the way forward regarding the three dimensions of sustainable development: economic, social and environmental.

Given our core business, we also feel a special responsibility to make our society more open, interesting, entertaining and well-informed. This is where Bonnier can
be of most value to sustainability.

We have identified five areas that are central to Bonnier’s work on sustainability and long-term social benefits.

The first area points to a unique obligation. Bonnier has carried it throughout its history, but it has become even more important and noticeable in recent years:

  • Freedom of speech. Bonnier shall be Sweden’s leading force for extensive freedom of expression and for free media. Freedom of speech and nonjudgmental dialogue should also characterize our internal corporate culture.

We share the other four areas with most forward-looking companies:

  • Environment and efficient use of resources. Although Bonnier’s environmental impact is relatively limited and varies between the different businesses, we shall work to minimize our direct impact where it is relevant in our value chain.
  • Diversity. Our companies shall offer fair career prospects, regardless of gender or background. Our operations must contribute to an inclusive society where more people have the chance to get involved.
  • Our employees. Attracting, developing and retaining the right competences is crucial to success. Creating environments where people can develop and successfully manage the pressures of the changing media industry is central to our businesses.
  • Governance. As a family-owned media company, we are keen for our businesses to have a long-term vision with established ethical guidelines and working alarm systems in case these guidelines are violated.

We regard open societies and freedom of speech as crucial sustainability issues. This is where Bonnier has great opportunities to make a difference. This is also where we make the biggest imprint.