ABSTRACT
As institutional investors, auditors have a duty to act in the best long-term interests of their beneficiaries. In this fiduciary role, auditors believe that environmental, social, and corporate governance issues can affect the performance of investment portfolios. Auditors also recognise that applying these Principles may better align investors with broader objectives of society. The Principles for Responsible Investment were developed by an international group of institutional investors reflecting the increasing relevance of environmental, social and corporate governance issues to investment practices. The process was convened by the United Nations Secretary-General. In signing the Principles, auditors as investors publicly commit to adopt and implement them, where consistent with their fiduciary responsibilities. Auditors also commit to evaluate the effectiveness and improve the content of the Principles. Auditors believe this will improve their ability to meet commitments to beneficiaries as well as better align their investment activities with the broader interests of society.
