The big issues – part 1

Globalisation is confronting us with big issues. Most of these have been around for a long time but their effect is more dramatic now. Every day, in the media, some new crisis, mistake or tragedy emerges but, equally, every day there is positive news – we learn more and there is some new step forward. High on the agenda are sustainability – in the environment, at work and in our lives; a fair distribution of prosperity, health and opportunity in the world; and the need for corporate and individual citizenship and one world thinking. The good news is that human consciousness and our thinking about organisations, society, communities, work, leadership and how change takes place are transforming. This, the first half of a two‐part article, seeks to raise awareness of the importance to business of the issues and show that there are huge opportunities for companies and individuals who see them.