Two awards for Erste Bank: Leadership in inclusion and climate change action

Erste Bank Serbia has received two prestigious accolades at the annual CSR & ESG Forum in Belgrade, reaffirming its leading role in socially responsible business practices. The Bank was named “Most Inclusive Employer 2024” and awarded the “Sustainability Champion 2024” title for its outstanding contribution to combating climate change and mitigating its impacts (sub-goal 13.1 of the 2030 Agenda). These recognitions highlight the Bank’s strategic commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace and supporting sustainable development through the implementation of ESG standards.

Leadership in Inclusion

Erste Bank was recognized as the most inclusive employer for its strategic dedication to diversity, equal opportunities, and inclusion. Through its continuously evolving Diversity and Inclusion Policy, the Bank actively cultivates an inclusive work environment that promotes equal opportunities for all employees. The “Most Inclusive Employer 2024” award was presented by the Responsible Business Forum and Smart Kolektiv, with the support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

“At Erste Bank, we believe in the uniqueness of every individual, which is why we nurture and develop an inclusive corporate culture that values and empowers diversity. By supporting everyone to be their authentic selves, we create space for them to reach their full potential. Together, we drive change and build a culture of equal opportunities for all our clients, employees, and society as a whole,” said Sonja Konakov Svirčev, Manager for Corporate Social Responsibility, Diversity, and Inclusion at Erste Bank Serbia.

Sustainability Champions

The “Sustainability Champion 2024” award was granted to Erste Bank for its leading role in implementing ESG standards and supporting Serbia’s energy transition. To date, the Bank has financed renewable energy projects with a total capacity exceeding 680 MW, which accounts for two-thirds of all green energy capacity in the country. Through strategic investments, such as financing wind farms and solar power plants, the Bank contributes to reducing carbon emissions, supports innovation in green technologies, and enhances community resilience to climate change. Additionally, the Bank actively collaborates with clients and partners to integrate ESG principles into their business models, offering expert guidance and tailored financial instruments to achieve sustainability goals.

“The world is changing rapidly, and it is our collective responsibility to act now. Our commitment to ESG principles is not just a business strategy but a moral obligation to future generations. Together with our partners, we continue to work on concrete solutions that contribute to sustainable development,” stated Katarina Majić, Senior ESG Specialist at Erste Bank Serbia.

These two prestigious awards underscore Erste Bank’s role as a standard-bearer for socially responsible business and sustainability. As a leader in these fields, the Bank remains dedicated to developing projects that promote inclusion, support diversity, and reduce environmental impacts, paving the way for a sustainable future for all.

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