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The APCO Geopolitical Risk Radar
Get the latest analysis of the global operating environment from the experts in APCO’s Geo-Commerce Solutions team. Subscribe for quarterly updates and read the latest blog posts on related topics.
A Transatlantic Look at Competition Policy: Navigating the Year Ahead
This report offers a roadmap for potential pitfalls in the regulatory roadmaps of the United States and the EU in the difficult years ahead—and insights into how to navigate this changing and challenging new environment.
Surprising Truths About Corporate Advocacy
In October, APCO surveyed the U.S. general public to understand views on the role of companies in this divided culture, revealing areas of both consensus and division. The takeaways and implications we’ve identified will help companies navigate what we anticipate to be a fraught environment.
ESG in the GCC
APCO and the GCC Board Directors Institute (GCC BDI) conducted a survey, complemented by a series of in-depth interviews with GCC executives to better understand where companies in the region are on their ESG journey, their priority issues and barriers to ESG implementation.
DEI Can’t Be One-Size-Fits-All: Tailoring DEI Solutions to Meet Unique Workforce Needs
Akinyi Ochieng
As the discourse around identity and equity gains prominence, companies are realizing that a one-size-fits-all approach to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) falls short in driving real change...
Read MoreRising Temperatures, Rising Stress: The Climate Anxiety Dilemma and Its Impact on Gen Z in the Workplace
Camryn Sofronski
As Gen Z joins other generations in the formidable challenge of salvaging a warming planet within a limited timeframe, it is crucial for corporations to recognize the negative impact of climate anxiety on both employee engagement and productivity—two vital elements for a thriving workplace...
Read MoreUnmasking Business Labelling—How the EU Is Tackling Greenwashing
Valerio Moneta
& Carlota Rabena
Greenwashing—the practice of marketing a product to look more environmentally friendly than it is—has become a buzzword for policymakers, consumers and businesses in recent years...
Read MoreReacting to Japan’s Environmental Strategy: Threading the Green Needle
Elena Iriyama
Despite having one of the world’s largest economies, Japan is a country with a low energy self-sufficiency ratio due to the scarcity of natural energy resources. As a result, Japan relies heavily on fossil fuels such as oil, coal and liquefied natural gas—most of which are imported—and is one of the top emitters of greenhouse gases...
Read MoreAddressing Climate Change Starts With Meeting People Where They Are
Sabiha Ozgur
& Delia Mayor
To effectively address this global and complex challenge that uniquely shapes multiple aspects of human life across different regions, it is crucial to understand public perceptions and knowledge around climate change...
Read MoreOffshore Wind Is a Key Solution for the United States
Liliana Diaz
& Jenny Muchnikoff
The United States has set ambitious renewable energy targets and needs to invest billions of dollars in scaling up clean energy sources to achieve these goals, including offshore wind...
Read MoreChina’s Booming Energy Storage: A Policy-Driven and Highly Concentrated Market
Xiaohan Zhang
In June 2023, China achieved a significant milestone in its transition to clean energy. For the first time, its total installed non-fossil fuel energy power generation capacity surpassed that of fossil fuel energy. The Chinese government is increasingly focused on what it calls “new-type energy storage systems” (NTESS)...
Read More2023 Enlargement Package: EU Commitment to Freedom, Democratic Values and a Long Road to Reforms
Nicholas Whyte
& Iurie Cordunean
On November 8, 2023, the European Commission adopted the 2023 Enlargement Package. The European Commission took the historic step of formally recommending to member states that they should open EU accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova...
Read MoreGenerative AI and Individuals with Diverse Abilities: Exploring Opportunities and Challenges
Loubna Charef
In the rapidly evolving technological landscape, generative artificial intelligence (AI) emerges not merely as the latest buzzword but as a significant force for transformation. However, as with most technologies, AI isn't without its pitfalls...
Read MoreCorporate Boards Should Drive Cybersecurity Strategy
Brian Keeter
Directors on corporate boards should take steps to ensure their business, industry or organization has developed a robust and comprehensive cybersecurity strategy...
Read MoreNew Treaty to Combat Cybercrime—but at What Cost?
Nick Ashton-Hart
In February 2024 negotiations at the UN intend to finalize a major treaty to create global rules for law enforcement cooperation on cybercrime. If the negotiations continue their present trajectory, the outcome will increase legal and reputation risks—up to and including arrest of staff and executives—for firms that operate globally...
Read MoreThe World's Greatest Business Opportunity in the Face of Ecological Crisis
Trevor Neilson
In these challenging times, we're grappling with grave ecological threats while simultaneously standing at the threshold of a monumental business opportunity: the sustainable transition...
Read MoreThree Approaches to AI Governance
Deniz Gungen
The race for regulating artificial intelligence (AI) is intensifying. Various countries have adopted different approaches to strike the right balance between safety and innovation. Over-regulation could stifle innovation, while failing to set clear rules for the development and deployment of AI could have a negative effect on the economy and human rights. ..
Read MoreFive Takeaways From Fordham’s International Antitrust Law and Policy Conference
Rachel Brandenburger
Top decision makers share how geopolitical challenges, digital regulation, and active and sometimes divergent enforcement against mergers are all contributing to a transformation in the antitrust landscape at Fordham’s 50th Annual International Antitrust Law and Policy Conference...
Read MoreBrand-Funded Film: Reputational Opportunities and Obstacles
Steve Salvador
Brands are making films that deeply resonate with audiences, while also remaining true to their core identity and purpose...
Read MoreBusinesses Must Meet the Needs of The Latino Customer Base
Camille Villafañe
& Luis Enrique Fernández Torres
Keeping up with the Latino consumer market is essential for businesses looking to blossom in today’s diverse economy...
Read More2024 EU Elections: A Reality Check for the Green Deal?
Valerio Moneta
Over the previous four years, the European Union has made addressing climate change a top priority, with a plethora of new legislation and revisions of existing ones under the umbrella of the European Green Deal—supported and championed by the European Commission’s leadership—with the aim of reaching bloc-wide climate neutrality by 2050. The EU has effectively become the global standard setter for green policies...
Read MoreSupply Chain Scrutiny Is the New Normal
Julian Gray
& Gabrielle Muhlberg
& Saga McFarland
It has become increasingly important for businesses to understand the underlying motivations behind the labor policy agendas in the United States and China in order to effectively respond to and mitigate reputational and operating risks...
Read MoreThe Imperative of Infrastructure Investment in Africa
Lauren Lund
A critical avenue for fostering economic prosperity and unleashing Africa’s market potential lies in substantial investments in infrastructure...
Read MoreAPCO Insight's Journey of Evolution and Growth
Bill Dalbec
Twenty-five years ago, APCO Worldwide sought to create what would become APCO Insight—the full-service global research, analytics and measurement group at the firm...
Read MoreWestern Companies as Bargaining Chips in Wartime Russia
Glyn Cozart Chaney
Of the many great costs imposed by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, attacks on international businesses operating within Russia may receive the least sympathy with Western audiences...
Read MoreGrowing EU Green Deal Tensions Reach the Chemicals Industry
Edward Zeinoun
& Colin Reisser
Over the last few months, an unprecedented level of industry and public feedback was submitted to the ECHA—a clear signal that the PFAS restriction proposal may have impacts far broader than expected...
Read MoreThe Digital Cold War: Predictive AI's Disruptive Role in Geopolitics
David Sánchez Carmona
Exponential advancements in predictive artificial intelligence, including large language models such as GPT, Claude, Bard and Llama, are leading to a significant shift in geopolitical engagement methods. Sovereign states, non-governmental entities, businesses and individuals are engaging in a digital race, creating strategies to successfully navigate the evolving landscape and protect their interests. A suspected influence campaign, recently revealed by technology giant Google's Mandiant, showcases these developing dynamics...
Read MoreThe G20’s IMEC Initiative: An Alternative Trade Corridor to China’s Belt and Road Initiative
Noam Ivri Adanani
& Sedef Akademir
The recent G20 summit in New Delhi witnessed the launch of a $20 billion India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC), an ambitious multi-pronged network aiming to connect goods and services between Europe and Asia—via the Middle East—more sustainably and efficiently...
Read MoreAntitrust in the Age of AI
Rachel Brandenburger
& Benjamin Faull
& Saga McFarland
This article focuses on the increasingly intertwined relationship between antitrust and competition law and other areas of regulation and on the expanding set of national and international institutions that are examining and addressing these issues...
Read MoreThe Future of Technology and Social Mobility in the UK
Richard de Pencier
The UK education system is in a state of flux, and with it the future of social mobility. The government is leaning into sectors where the UK leads—in industries such as life sciences, financial services and technology more broadly—through tweaking of the curriculum to resemble the advanced approach to mathematics found in the Far East. Similarly, a focus on Nordic principles of vocational education is seen as vital in preparing students for practical roles in the most equitable way possible, while boosting the UK’s productivity...
Read MoreRecommendations for Harmonizing Health and Sustainability: Analyzing the Intersection of EU Environmental Regulations and Pharmaceutical Legislation
Roberta Sadauskaite
As sustainability is gaining momentum and has become one of the top policy priorities across the world, pharmaceutical industry is under increasing pressure to contribute to achieving environmental objectives...
Read MoreScenes From the First Republican Debate: A Political Tactician’s Perspective
Nina Verghese
& Dan Meyers
On Wednesday, August 23, eight of the nine top Republican presidential candidates took the stage in Milwaukee, Wisconsin for the first primary debate of the 2024 U.S. presidential election hosted by FOX News. This debate was an introductory platform for the candidates to present to primary voters a broad overview of their positions on various issues rather than delving deeply into policy intricacies. APCO’s Nina Verghese and Dan Meyers, both former Republican operatives, attended the debate and had the chance to reflect on their observations. ..
Read MoreChanges Loom for CMS and Drug Manufacturers
William Pierce
& Yasmin Teymourian
As drug manufacturers grapple with the shift away from established methods of government drug payments, several questions remain: how well will CMS be able to execute this new law? What impact will it have on the industry? Will it actually lower prices for seniors?..
Read MoreNavigating Biologics Localization in Saudi Arabia: Unveiling the Policy Landscape
Samiha Sokar
& Jumana Nabulsi
In the ever-evolving realm of pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, the concept of biologics localization has gained remarkable prominence. This strategic approach involves concentrating various stages of the biologics supply chain within a specific geographical area. ..
Read MoreUnraveling Health Inequalities: Understanding, Measuring and Taking Action
Alida Valle
Health inequalities, which are systematic disparities in the health status and experiences of different population groups based on social determinants, have gained significant attention within the public health domain in recent years. This focus has been amplified by the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the momentum of the racial justice movement...
Read MoreKeeping Pace: UK Tech Regulation in the Modern Age of Health
Sophie Feary
As medical device regulation begins to impact companies that sit outside of the traditional health care setting, now is the time to act and ensure they are prepared for forthcoming regulatory changes and equipped to influence them...
Read MoreClientEarth v. Shell’s Board of Directors: Lessons for Corporations, Activists and Lawyers
Oli Leroy
This saga illustrates how activist investors can use creative legal strategies to damage the reputation of a company, state, local authority or financial institution over perceived lack of climate action, regardless of the ultimate outcome in court...
Read MoreIn Memoriam: Delano Lewis
APCO Forum
We are saddened to report that APCO colleague and International Advisory Council member Delano Lewis passed away on August 2, 2023, at the age of 84...
Read MoreBest Practices for Managing a Crisis Internally with Employees
Lanesha Reagan
& Hayes Nolte
For any company, regardless of how big or small, the number one priority when facing an issue or crisis should be communicating in a timely and accurate manner with the company’s key stakeholders. However, the most important audience group is often overlooked: the employees. Especially during a crisis, employees can be both the strongest advocates and harshest critics. ..
Read MoreDeveloping Markets: China’s Emissions Trading Scheme and European Carbon Border Tariffs
Tari Such
Recent heatwaves in China, Europe and elsewhere have intensified calls for action on climate change. On July 3—a day which saw the average global temperature surpass all previous recorded highs—Executive Vice-President of the European Commission Frans Timmermans stressed the importance of making polluters pay for their emissions. “Carbon pricing is widely recognized as the most cost-effective policy to cut greenhouse gas emissions,” he told students at Beijing’s Tsinghua University...
Read MoreWhat’s Next for European Businesses in China?
Julian Gray
& Alistair Burlinson
Conflicting signals on EU-China relations at a time of increased exchange underline the importance of remaining ahead of geopolitical risk, while providing important opportunities for European multinational corporations to consolidate their market position...
Read MoreTransatlantic Antitrust: Convergence, Divergence or Something Else?
Rachel Brandenburger
& Cecilio Madero
& Jacob Moroza-Rasmussen
In the trade and investment areas we are seeing moves towards protectionism and the politicization of some aspects of antitrust and competition policy resulting in some divergence between the EU and the United States...
Read MoreWhat Does Latin America’s Prioritization Mean for Business?
Thalia Baeza Milan
As Latin American leaders put Latin America first and take more control of their national resources and industries, private sector representatives should use this opportunity...
Read MorePrimer: De-Dollarization: Are We at an Economic Tipping Point?
Jolyon Kimble
Our Primer has all you need to know about de-dollarization in two minutes or less...
Read MoreIsrael-Türkiye Relations: Back on the Map
Noam Ivri Adanani
& Sedef Akademir
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, both victorious in re-elections in recent months, are set to meet in Istanbul for the first meeting of the countries' premiers in 15 years. The visit comes as both countries re-examine their place in an ever-complex global landscape with the Turkish Republic commemorating its centennial and Israel celebrating 75 years of existence. We took a look at what is in store for this relationship in the future, what has motivated this rapprochement and its implications for the region and beyond...
Read MoreThe U.S. Antitrust Agencies Propose Controversial Changes to their Merger Guidelines
Pamela Passman
& Rachel Brandenburger
& Freda Zhang
The Guidelines significantly expand the scope of transactions that are likely to be scrutinized by the agencies and signal the agencies’ intention to continue the recent shift to aggressive merger enforcement in the United States...
Read MoreGermany’s New Imperative Doing Business with China: De-Risking
Yuanyuan Wang
In mid-July, the German government unveiled its inaugural China strategy paper, outlining its approach to China and China's evolving role in the world and in geopolitics. The strategy aims to strike a delicate balance between necessary commercial engagement with China and reducing critical dependencies on China, with the ultimate goal of safeguarding Germany's economic and national security...
Read MorePost-Vilnius Geopolitical Outlook for Business
Nicole Zion
& Eva Bialobrzeski
Although the alliance accomplished their main goals, the dynamics that ensued among the 31 member countries illustrated the complex negotiations and delicate balance of interests within the alliance as they navigate the path forward for Ukraine and strengthen their collective defense against external threats...
Read MoreWhy ESG Is a Crucial Component of Financial Communications Now More Than Ever
Tessa Gough-Allen
Taking environment, social and governance (ESG) considerations into account in making investment decisions in the capital markets has received sustained criticism in recent months. ESG has become politicised and the movement itself is coming under scrutiny...
Read MoreKey Communication Considerations for CEOs when Contemplating a Merger or Acquisition
Jennifer Renwick
M&A is also frequently disruptive and can fail to deliver anticipated benefits if the process is not carefully managed. It is therefore imperative for CEOs to carefully evaluate various aspects before embarking on such a journey...
Read MoreLA28: Incremental Change for Impact at Scale
Linda Low
& Aunny De La Rosa-Bathe
While the term “economic legacy” has long been part of the sports vernacular, what has shifted is the intention to make these legacies truly equitable and accessible to underrepresented communities...
Read MoreESG Pulse of Pharmaceutical Companies in Highly Regulated Markets
Mariam Malik
How are pharmaceutical companies performing on ESG priorities without “green hushing?”..
Read MoreThe Importance of Corporate Reputation in Supporting Company Valuations and Accessing Capital
Annabel Reed
Reputation plays a pivotal role in shaping the success and growth of businesses, with numerous studies establishing a strong correlation between corporate reputation and financial performance...
Read MoreUkraine Recovery Conference: The Power of Public-Private Partnerships
Iurie Cordunean
& Luca Barberis
Get APCO's recap of the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2023 (URC) in London...
Read MoreFive Things to Know About Meta’s Threads
Rachael Mierzwa
& Minni Giangiulio
& Maggie Johnson
& Katie Lynch
While we watch to see how Threads performs, our team is answering a few key questions to help guide conversations with brand and social community managers...
Read MoreGuide to the Spanish EU Presidency
Christoph Mielke
& Lydia Shotton
& Hannah Bettsworth
With this guide, we hope to help you navigate the current political environment in Spain, including the upcoming snap elections on July 23, as well as what a new government could mean for Brussels...
Read MoreEmotion Is the Dark Matter of Office Culture
Maril Gagen MacDonald
A major theme that emerged from the last season of our podcast, Let Go & Lead, is that in the world of business, emotions affect everything, and there’s immense opportunity for those willing to address them...
Read MoreCertainty Has Never Been in Shorter Supply
Maril Gagen MacDonald
Picturing the future is never easy, but I’m not sure it’s ever been harder than it is today. It feels as if any number of global factors — from the ongoing war in Ukraine to China’s looming population crisis to the rapid emergence of machine learning and AI technology — could seismically impact how everything else shakes out...
Read MoreAPCO Forum: What to Expect at COP28
Nicole Monge
& Lynn Davidson
& Diego de Leon Segovia
APCO held a special webinar dealing with COP28 and its many challenges and opportunities. Watch the full recording here:..
Read MoreThe Business of Corporate Culture: Part II
Irv Gorman
Although the overall health of a company is usually measured by profitability metrics these metrics aren’t often linked to a company’s culture, but recent data suggests a strong correlation between profitability and strong corporate culture...
Read MoreCulture and Strategy Are Meant to Dine Together
Becky Jimenez
It’s time we set our culture initiatives up for success by ending the idea that culture eats strategy for breakfast. The two need to dine together for either to be properly nourished...
Read MoreThe Business of Corporate Culture: Part I
Irv Gorman
How much does a cup of coffee and a bagel cost? Perhaps the more important question to ask, especially for a company is: how much does the absence of a cup of coffee and a bagel cost?..
Read MoreCelebrating Juneteenth Is Now More Important Than Ever
APCO Forum
Members of APCO’s Black and African Ancestry Movement (BAAM) reflect on why celebrating the holiday is important given today’s political climate, along with identifying how they have traditionally celebrated Juneteenth in the past..
Read MoreWhy Does Pride 2023 Feel Different?
APCO Forum
Here at APCO, we’ve asked a few colleagues why Pride feels differently for them. This is what they had to say:..
Read MoreIn Memoriam: Don Bonker
APCO Forum
We honor and remember Former Congressman Don Bonker, who sadly passed away May 30, 2023...
Read MoreThe Summer of Travel Nightmares—Or Is It?
Christina Saull
Highly skilled positions, like air traffic controllers (truly the backbone of the industry), take years to train for—leaving towers understaffed, limiting capacity for air traffic and putting a strain on those who are working in these already high stress important roles. Airlines and their contractors, like many businesses, are facing a labor shortage as they struggle to fill lower wage hourly employee positions (next time you see a ramp worker at the airport, thank them for doing their backbreaking work in all weather conditions—you wouldn’t be on your way without them)...
Read MoreA Nation Divided: Türkiye’s Election Results
Deniz Gungen
& Sedef Akademir
Türkiye’s elections have resulted in Recep Tayyip Erdoğan securing another five years in power, winning 52.16% of the vote in the second round over his opponent Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who received 47.84% of the vote...
Read MoreCreating a More Sustainable Future Through Tech
Iana Pervazova
Generative AI has seen an explosion in interest and popularity since the public launch of ChatGPT in November 2022. Interest and awareness in the tech of the future hasn’t been this intense in decades, with some likening it to the lighting fast transition from “mystery to ubiquity” last seen in regards to the internet in the mid-’90s...
Read MoreBoth Prevention and Adaptation Are Vital to Antimicrobial Resistance
Lydia Martin
The UK’s response to antimicrobial resistance could be likened to efforts to improve our resilience to climate change. Both should not be considered a substitute for the preventative actions of reducing carbon emissions and reducing misuse of antibiotics...
Read MoreA Call for Philanthropy Across Industries to Get Smart on AI
Malcolm Temple
& Ramya Ravichandran
As artificial intelligence (AI) develops more and more capabilities, especially with recent advances in "generative artificial intelligence" thanks to the launch of ChatGPT, its potential to solve the world's most pressing social problems has grown. However, philanthropic organizations – although uniquely positioned to advance AI for social good – have yet to fully realize this potential...
Read MoreNext Generation Media Relations: Three Innovative Tactics to Modernize Your Strategy
Remi Lederman
The following list highlights the innovative ways that the PR industry is evolving. Recognizing that the tried-and-true methods (e.g., press releases, press conferences, etc.) will continue to drive tangible value for many companies, this list identifies some exciting new options that are worth exploring to better reach key consumer audiences and tell stories in more dynamic and engaging ways...
Read MoreDon’t Undervalue Your Utility Players: What the Dodgers Can Teach Us About Quiet Hiring
APCO Forum
Quiet hiring offers great promise for both businesses and employees. However, to truly tap into the power of it, you need a culture that values and cultivates versatility all the time — not just when there are gaps you’re desperate to fill...
Read MoreThe Far-Reaching Implications of Geopolitics on Food and Agriculture
Rosalind J. Reischer
& Mackenzie Allen
& Alyse Deutsch
“The problems involved in global food security are easy to talk about. The solutions are much more difficult.”..
Read MoreKey Takeaways From Türkiye’s Election
Deniz Gungen
& Sedef Akademir
On 14 May, Türkiye held presidential and parliamentary elections. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan shattered expectations by winning 49.52% of the vote over the opposition candidate Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu’s 44.88%. As no candidate won over 50% of the votes, a second round will take place on 28 May. The election was a strong showing for democracy with around 87% voter turnout...
Read MoreInnovation in Generative AI
Hussein Abdallah
& Abdullah Sahyoun
The potential that generative AI offers to our industry is seemingly unlimited. Generative AI is poised for continued advancement, promising further innovation in various fields. As research progresses and technology matures, it is expected to have profound societal and economic implications, transforming industries and prompting the development of appropriate legal and regulatory frameworks...
Read MoreA Robust Intellectiual Property Regime to Encourage Innovation
Avantika Singha
As evidenced by history, the relationship between innovation and economic growth is long-standing; the two feed off each other. Innovation enables growth and growth in return enables higher investment and demand for innovation, which makes it a strong case for any economy to encourage innovation...
Read MoreThe Interplay of Prediction Models like GPT and Human Judgment Skills
David Sánchez Carmona
Comprehending the role of prediction machines and the significance of human judgment skills in an AI-driven workplace is essential for businesses to remain competitive and innovative in this ever-changing landscape...
Read MoreUnderstanding the Relationship Between Technology and People: Paradoxes, Theories, and Work in the Age of AI
David Sánchez Carmona
Communicators and advisors must comprehend the paradoxes and theories underlining the connection between technology and people and the dynamics between early adopters and those who are slower to embrace AI technologies...
Read MoreTrue Innovation in Cryptoland
Jeff Zelkowitz
While everyone should maintain a healthy dose of skepticism, we also need healthy conversation between industry leaders and the mainstream policy and business community around true innovation in cryptoland...
Read MoreTürkiye Votes: A Country at a Crossroads
Deniz Gungen
& Sedef Akademir
On Sunday 14 May, Turkey will hold presidential and parliamentary elections, heralded by some as the most important election of 2023. As Türkiye marks its centenary as a modern republic, the outcome of these elections will determine the shape of the nation’s political system, economy, foreign policy, and its democracy for years to come...
Read MoreDEI as a Driving Force in Business Innovation
Alida Valle
DEI in TMTs is essential to business innovation by facilitating an unbiased decision-making process, promoting creativity, and establishing an inclusive culture. To better achieve this goal, companies should work to better understand the experience of top leaders and employee perceptions of their leadership efforts...
Read MoreEU-U.S. Transatlantic Relations: Navigating Uncertain Times
Gosia Pekala
The United States and the European Union (EU) have enjoyed a long-term strategic political, economic and trade partnership for many decades. However, the last few years have been challenging for several reasons and it’s evident on both sides of the Atlantic that these two need to strengthen their dialogue and cooperation if they want to keep their strategic relationship alive and well functioning...
Read MoreWhy Being Prepared Matters: Key Steps and Lessons from Consumer Brands and Beyond
Ellie Rutland
& Brianna Milanowski
How a company responds to an issue or a crisis, affects its reputation among key audiences, including consumers, customers, employees, shareholders, regulators and legislators. These audiences observe how a company handles a crisis, which can either damage or enhance their reputation, and lead to business losses or gains. ..
Read MoreEurope’s Pharmaceutical Framework has Been Reopened
Lydia Shotton
& Gregoire Zammit
& Sture Alne
Two decades after the first Medicinal Products Regulation and Directive was adopted, the EU is re-opening a pandora’s box of legislation in response to long-standing concerns that the current European pharmaceutical framework does not go far enough to address unmet medical needs, inequities in access to approved therapies and the burden of rising costs on national health care budgets...
Read MoreDigest From the Spring 2023 IMF and World Bank Group Meetings
Jean de La Rochebrochard
& Helena Deman
& Natalya Ares
Read the APCO Strategic Partnerships & Global Engagement team’s takeaways from the April 2023 World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund meetings...
Read MoreBoost Your Reputation by Improving Your Issues Management
Jim Moorhead
& Deanna Javadi
Safeguarding your reputation is a business fundamental, because it helps increase revenues, market value and overall financial performance. A stellar reputation also distinguishes you from your peers, builds strong brand trust from the public and loyalty from your customers, and secures your long-term presence in the marketplace. But reputational capital is fragile...
Read MoreProtecting Your Organization’s Reputation in an Increasingly Complex World
Elena Riva
& Nic Labuschagne
A good reputation is like having good health—you only really appreciate it once you’ve lost it. Maintaining an unblemished corporate reputation has become increasingly difficult amidst the growing fragmentation of interest groups, capricious public expectations and the insidious rise of misinformation...
Read MoreInternational Relations Pivoting Geo-commerce on the War-torn World Stage
Avantika Singha
While India’s G20 presidency was said to be geared toward the nation emerging as a voice for the ‘global south’ as well as playing a critical role on issues of global importance, the changed geo-political scenario—due to the Russia-Ukraine war and developed economies’ growing aversion to China’s influence—have dominated the discussions so far...
Read MoreWalking the Tightrope of Sustainability and ESG Communications
Michelle Lapadula
& Hunter Travers
U.S. businesses today often find themselves walking a communications tightrope on matters of ESG and sustainability. The counter to greenwashing, greenhushing, has gained significant attention in the last several months, particularly as businesses aim to keep out of political debates without simultaneously backing out of publicly stated goals..
Read MoreHead of the Class – How K-12 Administrators Will Need to Communicate Around Affirmative Action
Tyler Blackburn
Regardless of the multiple stances at play on affirmative action, all K-12 administrators will need to actively communicate about this issue to their educational communities, families and students...
Read MoreUnderstanding and Finding Opportunity in ESG
Emilie Schulze
ESG and the investments companies are making to measure and manage it can be an opportunity to leverage resources for creativity, move beyond just risk mitigation and open the door to new thinking, which ultimately drives new business approaches or offerings that increase profits. ..
Read MoreThe ESG Management Puzzle: Assembling the Pieces for Impactful Business Transformation
Sara Marcus
There is broad recognition that many ESG issues are fundamental drivers of business value, and so companies are looking inward, focusing on building the right management and operating structures to make meaningful progress across issues that range from climate risk to supplier diversity...
Read MoreThe Extraterritorial Impact of the Upcoming EU Corporate Sustainable Due Diligence Rules
Elodie Ricoul
The EU is developing its standard for responsible business amid the negative impacts of business activities on the environment and human rights. This calls for companies to be held accountable for their actions, and the EU’s initiative has the potential to change the way businesses operate in Europe and beyond...
Read MoreAn Opportunity for Centrism Emerges as Anti-ESG Hits a Snag
Julie Jack
& Jake Schwartz
The battle over ESG in the United States is complex. New fault lines appear almost weekly as the battle moves to the states. We looked at three states to identify countervailing narratives. Who were the voices and what were the perspectives reflected in the debate? And what might this suggest for how to effectively communicate and engage on ESG?..
Read MoreBreaking Down International Sustainability Reporting Standards
Elodie Ricoul
& Michelle Lapadula
Global sustainability reporting standards are under development to provide investors with more information about companies’ sustainability-related risks and opportunities. Now, the EU is finalizing its work on Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive and is fueled by the ambition to become a front-runner in global sustainability reporting standards. ..
Read MoreA Transatlantic Look at Competition Policy
Benjamin Faull
Because of recent legislative developments on both sides of the Atlantic, the times of fluid and smooth cooperation between the European Union (EU) and the United States are over, at least on economic, trade, competition and antitrust affairs...
Read MoreFailure to Communicate Strategically on Affirmative Action Ruling Will Impact University Reputations
Shannon Pesek
& Pete Wentz
In the next few months, the Supreme Court is expected to issue a ruling overturning or significantly restricting affirmative action programs used in college admissions. This ruling presents significant challenges for all public and private universities, as well as for community colleges...
Read MoreIs Remote Work to Blame for a Company’s Demise? Maybe, Maybe Not.
Katie Sprehe
During this the COVID-19 pandemic and era of remote work, some companies have succeeded, others are now bringing their employees back to the office and some are even blaming remote work for their company’s collapse...
Read MoreGen Z to Corporate Leaders: Your ESG Strategy Needs a Glow Up
Alida Valle
As both ESG and Gen Z become increasingly important elements of organizational strategy, and as Gen Z’s views also influence other generations, it’s essential that leaders thoughtfully consider where these two intersect...
Read MoreWomen’s History Month: Reflections from APCO’s Women’s Leadership Employee Resource Group on Being Women in the Workplace
Melissa Petito
& Ginna Royalty
& Katherine F. Mackinnon
& Lanesha Reagan
This March, as we celebrate Women’s History Month across the United States, APCO’s Women’s Leadership Employee Resource Group (WLG) leadership team took the opportunity to reflect and share their experiences as a woman in the workplace, and how they envision a better future for women at work...
Read MoreChina’s 2023 Two Sessions: Engineering a Stable Recovery
Katharina Qi
& Rachel Farmer
Crackdowns on business have left Chinese entrepreneurs weary and wary. The perception of foreign business in China serving as a bridge between the world is shifting dramatically. Here's what multinationals need to know...
Read MoreEmboldening Brands to Be Content Benefactors
Steve Salvador
Steve Salvador, Director of Video and Brand Programming at APCO explains why more brands should feel emboldened to be benefactors...
Read MoreESG Impact and Implications for International Companies: Views From Regional CEOs in Asia
Mark Michelson
Senior leaders must be committed to ESG initiatives for them to succeed. A three-year plan can act as a roadmap and help grow awareness and effectiveness. ..
Read MoreTelling Your Innovation Story: Lessons from CES
Nicole Zion
& Tim Bolton
With the right approach and storytelling, this event can open doors with partners, media, tech consumers, and other stakeholders. If you’re employing technology either to drive core business or to create external impact, there’s a place for you at CES...
Read MoreHow the Private Sector and Youth Are Addressing the ‘Polycrisis’ in 2023
Gabriel Barrientos
This year is the midpoint of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and with a “poly-crisis” of global issues, it is increasingly important to re-think how multistakeholder partnerships are developed and executed...
Read MoreClient Spotlight: MIT Solve
Dasha Iventicheva
Dasha Iventicheva—senior associate director at APCO Worldwide and member of the Strategic Partnerships and Global Engagement team sat down with Sue Kim, Head of Global Partnerships and Philanthropy for MIT Solve, an APCO client...
Read MoreNigeria Votes and the Race is Wide Open
Nicholas Whyte
The world should be paying more attention to Nigeria. A messy process, on the other hand, will likely feed regional instability; and West Africa is central enough to global trade and other currents that a failure of the process in Nigeria could have much wider ramifications...
Read MoreThe EU’s PFAS Restriction Proposal Explained
Colin Reisser
& Edward Zeinoun
The European Chemicals Agency recently published its long-awaited restriction proposal on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), setting out the pathway for the EU to ban the production and import of the family of over 10,000 persistent chemicals...
Read MoreBuilding With Resilience — Sustainability and Inclusive Growth Should Be the Touchstones for 2023
Avantika Singha
While in today’s multi-polar world, where the boundaries between the Global North and South are getting blurred due to the realignment of interests, the recent “Voice of the Global South” summit has brought back the focus on the global South- bringing together 120-odd developing countries...
Read MoreRelooking at Strategic Semicon Partnerships: India’s Role within the Global Semiconductor Value Chain
Avantika Singha
For India to leverage the global semiconductor supply chain it should work toward creating a competitive policy environment that creates a level playing field between foreign and domestic players. ..
Read MoreIndia Budget carves out a green, digitalized, inclusive growth path
Santosh Tiwari
India’s annual budget for 2023-24, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, envisages to push the country’s green growth agenda powered by a strong digital push. ..
Read MoreSuper Bowl 57 Ad Review: Brands Don’t Connect
Bill Dalbec
America is exhausted and brands offered A-list celebrities and light humor-driven Super Bowl ads. Bill Dalbec analyses Super Bowl LVII ads...
Read MoreWhat's on the Global Agenda - 2023 Outlook
Jean de La Rochebrochard
& Dasha Iventicheva
Digest from the World Economic Forum 2023 Annual Meeting and a look at what's ahead. ..
Read MoreHow Businesses Can Step Up Amid Growing Political Instability Across Latin America: Lessons from Brazil’s Insurrection
Thalia Baeza Milan
When shifting from Brazil to the region at large, Latin America is historically prone to protests—from Indigenous and women’s rights to far-right populist movements. They have opened a space for businesses to analyze ongoing political and social issues impacting their environment, as well as a pathway to prioritize and reinforce their business values...
Read MoreObserving Black History Month is a Form of Black Resistance
Randi Towns
& Tyler Blackburn
BAAM members reflect on what Black resistance means to them and how our ideas, while poignantly different, may more greatly unite us all...
Read MoreWhat a Return to Divided Government Means for Businesses
Robert Peters
Companies and organizations will need to recalibrate their strategies for engaging both the Biden Administration and Congress over the next two years, especially knowing that both Democrats and Republicans will approach everything they do with a watchful eye on the 2024 presidential election cycle...
Read MoreThe Emergence of Non-Crypto Blockchain in China
Coco Yang
In the upcoming years, the Chinese government and industries will pay increasing attention to non-crypto blockchain as a crucial technology that will support China’s pursuit of digitalization. This gives MNCs ample opportunities to pro-actively offer their experience and look for investment opportunities to establish a strong foothold in this emerging sector in China...
Read MoreWhich direction for EU health policy after the pandemic?
Sture Alne
& Augustin de Trogoff
The institutional questions the pandemic has raised about the EU’s role in health will not disappear. With the forthcoming revision of the EU pharmaceutical legislation, larger EU countries set the direction of the European pharmaceutical market for decades to come. ..
Read MoreHow Does Effective Crisis Management work in 2023?
Ellie Rutland
& Hayes Nolte
When a stakeholder communication plan is thoughtfully planned and meticulously executed, it is often the reason why a company or organization can overcome the potential issue and ultimately come back stronger by retaining trust and support from key stakeholders. It’s safe to say there’s never been a more important time to take a look at your crisis management strategy for 2023...
Read MoreHow Can Brands Win the Hearts and Minds of Gen Z?
Katie Sprehe
& Ashley Hay
How can corporations live up to the expectations of Gen Z while also balancing the beliefs and attitudes of others?..
Read MoreIsrael’s 37th Government: Netanyahu’s Right-Wing Coalition
Avraham Gold
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu formed the country’s 37th Government in late December 2022...
Read MoreFamily Offices Grow in Asia and Face New Strategic Communications Challenges
Pietro Battistella
High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWI) in Asia have increased, giving rise to the family offices as key players in the region's economic scenario...
Read MoreKwanzaa Brief and Resource Guide
Tyler Blackburn
& Randi Towns
& Mina Rodriguez
The ERG created a resource from the learnings about one holiday celebration in particular, Kwanzaa, geared towards educating our greater community...
Read MoreGuide to the Swedish EU Council Presidency
Christoph Mielke
& Lydia Shotton
We hope to help interested people navigate what the new Swedish government means for the EU, know the key stakeholders to follow, as well as understand the priorities which are driving the Presidency. ..
Read MoreSmall but Not Silent: Japan’s Youth Pursue New Forms of Influence
Seiko Indo
& Dale Vieregge
As average life expectancy creeps up and the number of newborns continues to decline, Japan’s inverted population pyramid is becoming even sharper toward the bottom...
Read MoreThe Metaverse Explained
Abdullah Sahyoun
The metaverse is a digital world—parallel to real life—where people can interact with each other in real-time...
Read MoreTunisia Votes, Ten Years After the Arab Spring
Nicholas Whyte
Voters of the North African state of Tunisia go to the polls in December 2022, ten years after the Arab Spring...
Read MoreViews from Asia and the Middle East
Masayo Nagai
& Mamoon Sbeih
Our regional experts outline upcoming opportunities and challenges in the MENA and Asia regions in business, politics and technology. ..
Read MoreUnderstanding the Barriers to Accessibility in UX Design
Dave Burke
& Alexis Harper
While it's impossible to think of every possible scenario, UX designers must work diligently to consider as many situations as they can...
Read MoreA Sustainable Investment Despite Economic Headwinds?
Aunny De La Rosa-Bathe
The bill will help speed the transition to clean energy by targeting the sectors responsible for emitting the greatest amount of domestic greenhouse gases..
Read MoreMaking the Business Case for Corporate Advocacy and ESG
Pamela Passman
It has also influenced companies across sectors to embrace and prioritize environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues that impact the health and sustainability of their business...
Read MoreLessons Learned From the World Health Summit 2022
Enrica Mertens
& Rosh Marius Singh
APCO’s Germany team was on the ground in Berlin to cover the latest developments on the global health agenda...
Read MorePoland Decides to Invest in Nuclear Energy
Gosia Pekala
Warsaw, believes that investing in the nuclear energy is an important step to help the country to gain an energy independence, which is especially crucial in the current geopolitical situation...
Read MoreAre You Ready for the Implications of Crossing Over to the Metaverse and XR?
David Sánchez Carmona
Experts believe that XR will eventually become mainstream, with businesses and individuals using it daily in their work and personal lives...
Read MoreWhat’s Happening to Twitter (In a Nutshell) and What It Means For Brands
Rotem Hinkis
Twitter Blue had a substantial effect on several companies, with many halting advertising spend or reducing activity on the platform...
Read MoreAdvanced Medtech in India
Avantika Singha
& Dr. Niranjan Pai
Advancements in technology have unearthed vast potential to galvanize the Indian health care landscape...
Read MoreSurprising Truths About Corporate Advocacy
Julie Jack
& Katie Sprehe
& Dan Scandling
In October, APCO surveyed the U.S. general public to understand views on the role of companies in this divided culture, revealing areas of both consensus and division...
Read MoreImpact of the Israel-Lebanon Maritime Agreement
Avraham Gold
& Noam Ivri Adanani
APCO's Tel Aviv team breaks down the business and policy impact of the a timely agreement made without true diplomatic relations between the two countries...
Read MoreIsrael’s 2022 Election Outcome: The Comeback of Netanyahu
Avraham Gold
On November 1, Israel held a national election for the 25th Knesset, with voters granting a distinct electoral victory to former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu...
Read MoreWhy Respiratory Health Is at the Core of Climate Change
Roberta Sadauskaite
Climate change leads to prolonged heat waves, increased length and severity of the pollen season and more which put human health at risk...
Read MoreThe "Why" of Political Participation
Nina Verghese
Election Day at APCO is a company holiday, but we like to think of November 8 as not a day off, but as a “day on.” Election day allows us to participate in whatever manner makes the most sense for each of us...
Read MoreAligning ESG Goals to National Sustainability Commitments
Avantika Singha
With this mindset, developed nations should have a net-negative by the middle of the century and vacate the carbon space for developing countries...
Read MoreEvery Business is an Energy Business
Dan Smith
& Renee Johnston
& Trevor Pearson
Building the energy system of tomorrow while combatting the rapidly intensifying consequences of climate change will be no small task..
Read MoreFrom SDGs to ESG: Why Sustainability Is Core to the Gulf’s Future
Liam Clarke
& Akinyi Ochieng
A recent report finds that while ESG is burgeoning regionally, many companies are still at the “start-up” phase of their ESG journey...
Read MoreAPCO's Guide to the New Italian Government
Francesca Cima
APCO's team in Italy summarized the most important things to know about the Meloni government’s members and the most urgent priorities for the next months...
Read MoreIsrael’s November 2022 Election–A Preview
Avraham Gold
& Noam Ivri Adanani
For the fifth time in four years, 6.8 million Israelis will be eligible to vote in a general election...
Read MoreThree Takeaways for Multinational Corporations to Manage Crises Around the World
Pietro Battistella
Here are three takeaways that will be valuable for multinational corporations in China and internationally...
Read MoreU.S. Midterms Portend Change in Washington
Dan Scandling
Elections in the United States is days away and voters across the country are being targeted by television, mail, social media and in person. ..
Read MoreRecap: 2022 APCO Forum on Climate
Heather McGeory
Discussions addressed the importance of halving emissions by 2030 to limit warming to 1.5°C, the role of corporations in driving to net zero, what’s next for voluntary carbon markets and nature-based solutions in a high-ambition pathway. ..
Read MoreHow to Draft a Winning Cross-Functional Team for Issues and Crisis Response
Linda Barnhart
How do you strike the right balance between sourcing enough knowledge and experience versus having too many people on the field?..
Read MoreOutlook of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China
Lu Yang
From October 16-23, the Communist Party of China (CPC) will complete its once-in-a-decade leadership change...
Read MoreThe Race to Sustainability: The EU Is One Step Ahead With New Sustainability and Due Diligence Rules
Gabrielle Muhlberg
& Elodie Ricoul
The EU has placed itself at the forefront of sustainability efforts, with ambitious climate laws and a 2050 deadline for carbon neutrality...
Read MoreInfluyente y Resiliente: The Importance of Getting Data “Right” on U.S. Latinos
Alida Valle
As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close and as companies wind down their celebration efforts, it’s an opportune time to revisit how Hispanics continue to shape the United States, as well as the challenges they face year-round. As consumers of data, companies should care about where their data comes from and how it was collected, especially when that data is being used to inform corporate strategy...
Read MoreEurope Puts Social Issues High on ESG Agenda
Lydia Shotton
Driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change and social movements around equity and justice, such as Black Lives Matter, policymakers in the European Union (EU) are increasingly focused on ensuring responsible business conduct...
Read MoreWhy LGBTQIA History Month Matters
Diego de Leon Segovia
& Tristan Fitzpatrick
& Mina Rodriguez
We asked several of our LGBTQIA ERG members to share why our history matters to them and recommended a book that tells a part of our history...
Read MoreWhat Companies Need to Know About Neurodiversity
Scott Chalkley
The hiring of neurodivergent people shouldn’t be thought of as a good deed–it should be thought of as a wise one...
Read MoreSenatorial Election 2023: What Role for the Senate in a Renewed French Parliament?
Jean Bizet
The historically well-established local political parties are maintaining their position, despite their failures other elections...
Read MoreWhat Will Define This Year’s Presidential Election in Brazil
Caroline Gibin Ribeiro
Brazil will hold high-stakes presidential and congressional elections that will significantly impact policy directions for the country...
Read MoreThe “Sustainability Generation” Is Taking Root in the Gulf: How to Leverage Gen Z to Power ESG Progress in the GCC
Camryn Sofronski
& Akinyi Ochieng
In the Gulf, Gen Z is an emerging key stakeholder group—and it is time Gulf-based companies took notice as younger workers rise in the ranks. ..
Read MoreHealth Care Disruption Is Here: A Few Considerations for Disruptors
Randi Towns
We are in a constant whirlwind of industry updates that fundamentally change the way health care is delivered...
Read MoreThe Future of People in the Workplace: The Rise of Japan’s Freelance Community
Masaya Takasaka
In this changing societal landscape, Japan is also observing a rapid growth in its freelance population and economy...
Read MoreArtificial Intelligence in 2022
Abdullah Sahyoun
Today, technology is the oxygen that our world breathes. It is no longer a convenience or alternative, but a tool that must be leveraged...
Read MoreReclaiming the Lost Art of "Stakeholder” Engagement
Scott Conklin
& Devyn McDonald
Maintaining dialogue with your constituents, allies and critics in times of calm and crisis prevents circumstances that enflame controversy...
Read MoreThe Shrinking University Leader: Steps to Avoid Failed Searches and Premature Departures
Brian Keeter
The pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for university leaders just as it did for those in business, industry and government...
Read MoreDriving Climate Finance at Scale at COP27
Heather McGeory
In 2009, donor countries committed $100 billion a year by 2020 for climate mitigation in developing countries. In 2022, this commitment remained unfulfilled and the OECD estimates that it will take until the end of 2023 to get to the first $100 billion...
Read MoreTruss vs Sunak: What Does It Mean for UK-EU Relations?
Karen Anciaux
& Sedef Akademir
On 5th September, Britain will find out who the next leader of the Conservative Party is, and which candidate will have to tackle the multitude of issues facing the country...
Read MoreRight Under Our Noses, Routine Vaccines Are Under Attack—A Lesson in Effective Communications From Anti-Vaxxers
Marie Cocco
The World Health Organization (WHO) listed vaccine hesitancy as one of its top 10 threats to global health in 2019...
Read MoreInvestment in Human Resources in Japan: Women in STEM
Nozomi Sasao
Rikejo (science women), a term frequently heard in Japanese media and daily conversations, addresses women who are pursuing an education in STEM...
Read MoreWhy U.S. Universities Must Implement DEI Initiatives Strategically
Isaac Rosso Klakovich
& Tyler Blackburn
To achieve meaningful progress, it is essential for university leadership to weave DEI goals into the fabric of the strategic plan...
Read MoreCrisis Prevention Is Job One
Jim Moorhead
A crisis often creates panic, fear and stress. But sometimes you miss a critical step–crisis prevention–which demands a brave, new approach. ..
Read MoreThe State of Digital Tools in Modern Education
The tools used in today’s learning environment have evolved over the past two years as the educational landscape adapts to external factors...
Read MoreEncore: Ever-Changing Learning and Development for Caregivers Returning to Work
Leanne High
Encore launched when five women, who had taken time out of the workforce to be caregivers, returned to recharge their careers...
Read MoreWriting the Playbook for Learning Events in a Hybrid Workforce
Courtney O’Connell
A true hybrid event should be inclusive to individuals attending in-person and virtually...
Read MoreHow Hospitals Can Build Their Brands in a Time of Disruption
Mathew Shearman
Solidifying a hospital brand requires a clear narrative, consistent storytelling and a boldness to work with partners in new ways. ..
Read MoreParliamentary Arithmetic: Sweden's 2022 Election
Nicholas Whyte
Sweden goes to the polls on 11 September, to elect the members of the Riksdag, the Swedish Parliament, who will elect the new prime minister...
Read MoreThe Time Is Now for Universities to Communicate Their Social Impact
Shannon Pesek
University leaders should ask themselves: are they doing enough to advance positive change that solve or address social injustice?..
Read MoreBreaking Down the CHIPS and Science Act
Rosalind J. Reischer
& Zachary Durkee
& Robert Peters
The bill aims to reduce foreign dependence on semiconductor production in geopolitically sensitive locations...
Read MoreWhen Should MNCs Expect China to Shift Away From “Zero-COVID” Strategy?
Nina Zholudeva
While much of the world is easing COVID-19 restrictions despite persistent waves of infections, China remains unwaveringly committed to the “zero-COVID” strategy...
Read MoreVirtually Inevitable: Virtual Learning Will Soon Be a Norm for Learning
Tyler Blackburn
Virtual education appears to be a solid path forward for students to meet their individual academic goals and we should stop fighting the tide and embrace this new format as a norm. ..
Read MoreThe Fallacy of Neglecting Communications During Economic Uncertainty
Linda Barnhart
& Deanna Javadi
For every downswing, there will be an upswing, and if you want your brand and business to come out ahead, now is the moment to adopt a consistent communications strategy with long-term objectives driving decision-making...
Read MoreGlobal Food Security is Y(O)ur Business
Devry Boughner Vorwerk
& Ira A. Jackson
Global food security is too important to be left to the food and agriculture industry to address alone. All industries must step up and see themselves as part of the global food system...
Read MoreIntroducing a New Influencer—VTuber
Yuki Fujishima
& Shabrina Hazimi Putri
VTuber refers to a digital creator persona who streams using a virtual avatar generated by computer graphics also known as “CG.”..
Read MoreKeeping It Real: Showing Up Authentically Across Social Platforms
Maggie Johnson
& Kelly McPharlin
Increasingly, people want to see real people living an unfiltered life, speaking on issues that matter and simply keeping it real...
Read MoreFrom Scrolling to Spending: The Rise of the Social Media Shopper
Hanna Grimm
Gen Z finds themselves logging in to social media to discover new trends, friends and brands—and often-times find new products to buy...
Read More2022 Digital and Creative Trends in Brand Design
Prabhat Jena
This is 2022 and brands are making a leap toward a more creative approach to bridge the communication gap between themselves and clients...
Read MoreStrengthening Employee Crisis Response With Battle-Testing
Deanna Javadi
So, what sets companies that can come back stronger from a crisis from the rest? It comes down to battle testing...
Read MoreAdvocacy and Digital Media
Jordan Sarver
Incorporating social impact into a strategic digital plans is an important way to increase social awareness...
Read MoreThe Role of Coal Power in China’s Changing Energy System
Tari Such
China announced several important developments in its climate agenda in 2021...
Read MoreMetaverse—Are We Ready for the Next Big Shift?
Megha Puri
This has been the most highly anticipated technology revolution in a long time, and it is staring right at us...
Read MoreSpring Ahead from Crypto Winter
Remi Lederman
Those who want to survive will use this Crypto Winter as a reality check and a learning opportunity to build better...
Read MoreHow Hydrogen Players Can Leverage the Momentum as Policy Interest and Investments Increase
Pietro Battistella
Here are three pieces of advice for both established and new hydrogen players to seize opportunities through strategic communications...
Read MoreLeading the Way to Sustainable Innovation in the Transport Sector: The Example of Cruising
Silvia Perino Vaiga
& Eugenio Serra
& Camilla D’Amico
In a world that increasingly looks at solutions to limit the environmental footprint of human activities, transport and infrastructure are in the spotlight as one of the most environmentally impactful yet essential sectors...
Read MoreWhat's Next in UK Politics - A Social Media Analysis
Chris Levy
& Anthony Marchese
APCO Insight analysed UK-based Twitter followers of four Tory MPs tipped to succeed Johnson according to two key criteria...
Read MoreGCC Tourism Growth Has Lessons for Governments
Mathilda Saad
How did the GCC countries consolidate and grow their tourism offer while being locked in for over a year during COVID-19?..
Read MoreOverlaps Between Business and Leisure Travelers Creates New Opportunities
Emilie Schulze
There’s a new group of travelers emerging for travel and hospitality brands to try and capture–the “bleisure” traveler...
Read MoreTravel Is Back, and More Diverse Than Ever
Richard VanOrnum
Travel industry operators are seeking to expand their market, in part by building engagement with younger and more diverse consumer segments...
Read MorePost-pandemic Medical Travel and Tourism–Will It Return To What It Once Was?
James Tyrrell
& Stephanie Tan
The reopening of borders is a particular relief for those travelers relying on foreign healthcare and providers themselves...
Read MoreGuide for Communicators: Boost Your Business with AI
Imad Lahad
AI is an exponentially growing force across industries, with new AI products revolutionizing the market and adding ease of doing business as a core component of the workspace...
Read MoreThe Digital Garden City Nation: Opportunities Abound in Japan’s Changing Social Landscape
Elena Iriyama
& Grace Mayhew
The basic concept of the Vision is to use technology and digital infrastructure to “create a society where anyone can comfortably and conveniently live anywhere in the country.”..
Read MoreThe U.S.-EU Trade and Technology Council
Vivian Zhu
The forum was established to help resolve long-standing bilateral issues and align American and European policies...
Read MoreJohnson Survives No Confidence Vote
Anthony Marchese
& Holly Muirhead
Yesterday evening, Prime Minister Boris Johnson survived a motion of no confidence by his fellow Conservative MPs by a margin of 211-148...
Read MoreAPCO's Davos 2022 Digest
Jean de La Rochebrochard
APCO's Davos 2022 Digest takes stock of key themes and issues covered in Davos and on the global agenda today...
Read MoreFour Takeaways for Businesses from Blinken’s China Speech
Rosalind J. Reischer
& Zachary Durkee
President Biden unveiled his China strategy. The strategy is organized around three pillars: invest, align, and compete...
Read MoreWhat Can—And Can’t—Be Said After the Launch of Biden’s Indo-Pacific Economic Framework
Zachary Durkee
& Gavin McGovern
The IPEF is the main economic pillar in the Administration’s broader Indo-Pacific Strategy...
Read MoreEffective Advocacy For Today and Tomorrow
Nina Verghese
Advocacy campaigns must be innovative, nimble and constantly rethinking and reevaluating whether their tactics are successful..
Read MoreFor Innovation in Leadership, Look to Aristotle
Emily Scherberth
Leaders have a new mandate: to become catalysts for progress and co-create a place for people to flourish, have purpose and do their best work...
Read MoreRemote Patient Monitoring Could Finally Actualize the Potential of Wearables
Mathew Shearman
The acceleration of remote health care could be one of the most sustained innovations to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic...
Read MoreCommsLife: Let’s Get Phygital
Thomas Billinghurst
The future of the retail landscape looks very different to the bricks and mortar physical buildings we interact with today...
Read MoreHow Predictive Models Are Perturbed by Geopolitics
David Sánchez Carmona
Predictive models use language as text, images from sensors, or transactional quantitative data from the past..
Read MoreEight Rules for Communicating Public Health Risk in a Crisis–From Horsemeat to Covid
Lydia Martin
By evaluating government communications during threats to public health, we can identify fundamental rules for communicating risk...
Read MoreCities, Equity and the Metaverse
The internet is transforming, converging our physical and digital worlds to create an immersive experience known as the metaverse...
Read MoreThe Buck Stops With Us: Aligning Innovation, People and Purpose for Sustainability
Taniya Thomas
& Nicole Zion
The good news about this “now or never” moment is that we are seeing a reinvigorated push for innovation to explore new climate solutions..
Read MoreHow Can Companies Truly Demonstrate Innovation? Lessons Learned From APCO’s Research Studies
Katie Sprehe
& Gabrielle Weisberg
As the team dedicated to uncovering what drives our client’s corporate reputations, recent trends from our research reveal new lessons for corporate communicators...
Read MoreESG Transformation Requires the Hard Work of Change Management
Sara Marcus
Companies will need to approach ESG as a transformation of their business requiring significant change management...
Read MoreChina’s Metaverse: An Emerging Technology Shaped by its Regulatory Environment
Edward Logan
The metaverse will be the first major global technology created in a world under China’s regulatory framework for cyberspace...
Read MoreDon’t Wait to Be Called: Three Reasons to Proactively Adopt a Racial Equity Audit
Akinyi Ochieng
& Elle Arlook
As independent, objective reviews of how corporate policies and practices affect underrepresented groups, racial equity audits are vital to ensuring that companies become fairer and more welcoming places to work...
Read MoreDawn of Semiconductors: Transcending Borders and Leading Through Innovation
Avantika Singha
A global, efficient, competitive, profitable and resilient semiconductor industry can usher continual technological innovations benefitting people, businesses and nations...
Read MoreClosing the Health Care Gap: Why Innovation Matters
Gemma Kyle
To get back on track, we need to harness the intensity of innovation displayed in our response to the pandemic...
Read MoreCan Biden’s Proposed Indo-Pacific Economic Framework Deliver?
Zachary Durkee
Two pillars of the Biden administration’s approach toward the region—its long-awaited China strategy and highly anticipated Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF)—are set to be formally launched..
Read MoreGlobal Perspectives on Emmanuel Macron’s Reelection
Arnaud Pochebonne
The second round of the 2022 presidential election on April 24 resulted in the victory of the outgoing president Emmanuel Macron...
Read MoreFamily Politics and Factions: May’s Elections in the Philippines and Northern Ireland
Nicholas Whyte
Two significant elections take place in May 2022 on islands at opposite ends of the Eurasian landmass...
Read MoreA Pending Boom in Japanese M&As Requires New Forms of Cultural Intelligence
Dale Vieregge
& Seiko Indo
Among the various means of achieving foreign market expansion, Japanese firms have turned time and again to a classic pair: mergers and acquisitions...
Read MoreThe ESGs of M&A
Jeff Zelkowitz
Corporate leaders and dealmakers increasingly see acquisitions as a way to accelerate sustainability strategies, creating new challenges for communicators...
Read MoreChina’s Emerging Data Governance Framework: Implications For MNCs
Yuqi Wang
& Jiaxin Li
Frameworks established by pieces of legislation make clear that Chinese regulators aim to compel multinational corporations to pursue data localization...
Read MoreTen Ways to Improve Pandemic Communications
Wayne L. Pines
Here are 10 recommendations for how we could do a better job of educating the public about the pandemic...
Read MoreGlobal M&A and Antitrust Trends
Benjamin Faull
& Bruce Fu
It is a busy time for antitrust and competition policy, with major new laws hitting the statute books and enforcers vying to outdo each other in severity...
Read MoreIndia-UAE Trade Agreement: A Win-Win Deal For Both
Rahul Sharma
The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and the UAE is set to be a template for future trade agreements that both the nations are planning to sign with other countries. This report captures what is in store for multinationals in the India-UAE CEPA...
Read MoreInnovate Finance Global Summit 2022 – a Week on…
Richard de Pencier
At this year’s Innovate Finance Global Summit, exhibitors, speakers and punters alike witnessed a modern, high-growth and disruptive sector assume centre stage within the dizzying corridors of the historic City of London’s Guildhall...
Read MoreFive Ways of Influencing the EU Decision Making Processes and Why It Matters
Elena Riva
Decoding and navigating the EU system provides the time, opportunities and tools for stakeholders to raise, address and shape the decision-making processes...
Read MoreWhat’s on the Global Agenda?
Gabriel Barrientos
APCO Worldwide’s “What’s on the Global Agenda” report, developed by APCO’s Strategic Partnerships & Global Engagement team takes stock of evolving global issues, priorities and critical global agenda-setting moments in the year ahead, from Davos to the UN General Assembly, G-20 Summit to COP-27 and many others...
Read MoreConversations With APCO's North America ERGs
APCO Forum
As we celebrate diversity and inclusion this month, we heard from members of each of APCO's Employee Resource Groups to better understand the experiences and challenges community members are facing inside and outside of the workplace...
Read MoreAPCO LGBTQ+ and Women’s Leadership Group Employee Resource Groups Stand in Support of Trans Day of Visibility
Kika Chatterjee
This day is dedicated to recognizing the resiliency and accomplishments of the trans and gender nonconforming community while also shedding light on the hardships the community still faces due to transphobia and bigotry...
Read MoreHas Corporate America Run out of Steam for Equity & Justice? Reignite the Fire With These Top Five Strategies!
Charlene Wheeless
& Majd Baniodeh
Leaders have to understand that employees no longer consider equity and justice the right thing to do, it has become the necessary thing to do...
Read MoreA Race for Second Place? The 2022 French Presidential Election
Nicholas Whyte
Emmanuel Macron looks likely to be the first French president to be re-elected since 2002...
Read MoreAccess Matters
Hannah Beermann
So how can corporate institutions adjust and iterate to these trends to fundamentally challenge and improve the purpose of corporate DEI?..
Read MoreU.S. Private Sector Must Pick Up Government’s Slack on Gender Equity
Margery Kraus
There remain major barriers to closing the gender gap in the U.S., seemingly embedded in our social structure and exacerbated by the pandemic...
Read MoreThe Ukraine Conflict–The Challenge for Pharma
James Tyrrell
With no quick end to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, life sciences companies are increasingly being challenged to navigate this complex geopolitical crisis...
Read MoreHealth Data Breaches on the Rise: What Does It Mean for Health Care Companies
Brian Keeter
Digital health organizations and pharmaceutical companies are challenged to act now to demonstrate to patients and customers that they are fortifying their digital defenses...
Read MoreDiversity and Inclusion Is Serious Business and No Pun Intended
Megha Puri
The pandemic may have further exacerbated an organization’s need to embrace DE&I but it falls to each and every one of us to now carry the baton forward...
Read MoreSupporting Women in the Workplace: Doing More and Being Better
Lottie Wistow
& Tristan Lemonnier
We want our colleagues around the world to challenge and question one another and, in this way, push each other to think differently..
Read MoreHow Do We Empower Latina Women at the Workplace?
Camille Villafañe
As part of their diversity, equity and inclusion commitments, companies and organizations should look for ways to constantly empower Hispanic women to pave their way toward leadership positions...
Read MoreReturning to Work After a Career Break
Lydia Martin
I encouraged this year’s delegates to talk to recruiters about what they did before their career break, demonstrating that their experience is still valid. It doesn’t expire...
Read MoreChina’s 2022 Two Sessions: What Multinationals Need to Know
Nina Zholudeva
China is confronted with a series of complex challenges in 2022, from sporadic local COVID-19 outbreaks to weak consumption growth and external tensions...
Read MoreIndia’s 2022 Assembly Polls Decoded: What’s Next for You
Rahul Sharma
The results of state elections in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Goa and Manipur at this juncture have national ramifications, especially with regard to the policy direction of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi government at the centre...
Read MoreRevisiting the Basics: Embedding Intersectionality Into Data Practices
Alida Valle
Data is playing an increasingly important role in driving and guiding all areas of business, including corporate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts...
Read MorePreparing For The Net Zero Future
John Defterios
& Heather McGeory
& Nic Labuschagne
& Tim Walmsley
What do global climate conferences and national net zero commitments mean for your business? Watch as we demystify the official United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), dig into the impact of national commitments and uncover the role you can play in the upcoming COP27 in Egypt and COP28 in the UAE...
Read MoreCommsLife: The Future of Travel
Licy M. Do Canto
Hear more in this episode of CommsLife with Stephanie Waties, senior director and Licy Do Canto, managing director of APCO’s headquarters in Washington...
Read MoreImpact-Multiplying Partnership Spotlight: Talking Refugee Inclusion With the Tent Partnership for Refugees
Hilary Brandenburg
& Helena Deman
Tent’s mission is focused on inclusion–we encourage companies to think about refugees as customers, employees and entrepreneurs...
Read MoreA Close-Run Thing? Voters Choose in the Republic of Korea
Nicholas Whyte
Koreans go to the polls again on 9 March. There is only one round of voting, and the candidate with the most votes across the country will win...
Read MoreIncreasing the Presence of Startups in Japan
Nozomi Sasao
According to the most recent research by Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, entrepreneurship activity in Japan remains low compared to the global average. ..
Read MorePartnership Spotlight: Talking Gender Data With Data2X
Dasha Iventicheva
Transformative change is a collaborative effort, Data2X is working to advance gender-equitable data solutions through partnerships with other UN agencies. ..
Read MoreMultilateral Trade Agreements in the Asia-Pacific: What China’s Participation Means For MNCs
Zhaohong Liu
& Tari Such
This post takes a closer look at how China’s RCEP membership and potential CPTPP and DEPA memberships may impact MNCs...
Read MoreSuper Bowl LVI Ad Review: A Great Game but Great Ads Are Absent
Bill Dalbec
I have long posited that on this biggest of stages, the best brands choose to highlight who they are, what they stand for and celebrate the people who make them possible—their employees and customers...
Read MoreSeven China Issues MNCs Should Be Watching in the Year of the Tiger
Teresa Lu
In this guide for corporate executives, APCO experts identify seven issues that we’re watching and know will be important for MNCs in 2022...
Read MoreFostering Connection Through Leadership in 2022
Licy M. Do Canto
Travel and connection drive our success and we are excited to see them return—even if what that may look like is evolving...
Read MoreTrends and Tremors 2022
Brad Staples
But what challenges should corporate leaders expect to face this year and what are the geopolitical issues that must be navigated this year?..
Read MoreFive Lasting Impacts of COVID-19 on MNCs
James Robinson
In 2022, we will see the enduring geopolitical, societal and geo-commercial effects of the COVID-19 pandemic reveal themselves...
Read MoreAssessing China’s Real Estate Crisis: Key Takeaways for MNCs
Lu Yang
There are concerns over the stability of China’s real estate sector and the impact of the crisis on the wider Chinese economy and effect in other sectors...
Read MoreThree Research Trends to Know About in 2022
Darren Bosik
& Bill Dalbec
As the pace of business and life speed up every year, research, measurement and analytics have to keep up. Here are some evolving research trends for 2022...
Read MoreOn the Move: The Future of Business Travel
Simone Manlove
As circumstances continue to evolve around the pandemic, so does the way we move, interact, and do business, especially in Washington. ..
Read MoreIntegrating Supply Chain With Corporate ESG Strategy: Why It’s Important
Pamela Passman
& Heather McGeory
Focusing on the ESG factors of supply chain management is no longer “just” a communications strategy but a strategic necessity...
Read MoreChina, Commerce and Climate
Teresa Lu
& Rosalind J. Reischer
Global companies with operations in China face new challenges, but most still view the Chinese market as critical to their business strategies globally. ..
Read MoreWhy Purpose Can Help Small Businesses Stand Out
Akinyi Ochieng
One way for small businesses to stand out vis-a-vis their larger counterparts is to lean into purpose by infusing sustainability and social impact...
Read MoreNavigating Supply Chain Disruption
COVID-19 drove unprecedented sudden and dramatic shifts in both demand and supply. Supply chain managers have always had to be nimble to respond to challenges in increasingly complex chains. But past disruptions tended to be local or regional, typically caused by environmental disasters or other emergencies. The pandemic, however, hit countries globally and nearly simultaneously...
Read MoreCrypto as a Technology
Jeff Zelkowitz
As we head into 2022, it’s worth reflecting on the economy we want to build, while being clear-eyed in examining the negative social risks of emergent crypto technologies and Web3 visions. That is a conversation worth having and it’s important for industry and policy leaders to listen to new voices, understand new communities and engage generations of consumers that are growing up in this more decentralized layer of our economies and societies...
Read MoreAPCO Worldwide's Guide to the French Presidency of the Council of the European Union
Arnaud Pochebonne
Starting on January 1, 2022, France will hold the Presidency of the European Union for six months. France's voice is expected to resonate during this crucial time for Europe, facing many choices and the increased competition between the world's major powers...
Read MoreAdvent of a New Stage of India’s Digital Retail Revolution
Avantika Singha
& Anish Pradhan
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the much-needed digital transformation, especially in the retail sector in the country...
Read MoreDriving Engagement through Purpose in Uncertain Times
Alida Valle
& Monica Gunkle
As we approach the season of giving, one way to increase employee engagement is through philanthropic initiatives. ..
Read MoreThe Quirinal Treaty: Resuming a Strong Franco-Italian Partnership at a Critical Moment
Silvia Perino Vaiga
& Olivier Clement
& Camilla D’Amico
The Quirinal Treaty aims to settle once and for all the disputes that have undermined the stability of diplomatic relations between Italy and France in recent years (e.g. on industrial issues such as Fincantieri and on migration), paving the way for greater cooperation in key sectors such as digital and ecological transition, defense, culture ad education...
Read MoreThe Xi-Biden Meeting: Calm in a Sea of Confrontation
Rosalind J. Reischer
& Alistair Burlinson
The meeting could act as a foundation for a more stable relationship and productive dialogue on issues of mutual interest...
Read MoreEngaging Activists in the Age of Activism
Deanna Javadi
& Maureen Dempsey
Activist groups are finding ways to amplify their voice more effectively in the corporate world, leveraging the culture of consumer activism to businesses...
Read MoreWhat’s on the Global Agenda in Fall 2021?
Gabriel Barrientos
From G-20 to the ongoing COP26, our team took stock of a number of cross-cutting emerging themes that present opportunities for strategic engagement, cross-sectoral partnerships and collaboration to advance innovative solutions to critical issues on the global agenda...
Read MoreAPCO Forum: COP26
John Defterios
& Heather McGeory
In this edition of APCO Forum, we cover the biggest issues on the agenda at COP26 in Glasgow...
Read MoreWEBINAR: The Future of Work: Building a Strong and Inclusive Culture
Licy M. Do Canto
In a panel at PRovoke Media Global Summit industry leaders spoke about the lessons learned while building an inclusive culture in a remote environment...
Read MoreChina’s Decarbonization Agenda Presents New Opportunities and Challenges for MNCs
Charlene Liu
& Amy Yang
What does China’s increasing emphasis on decarbonization mean for MNCs looking to enter or expand in China?..
Read MoreInvesting in Care Is a No-Brainer
Judit Arenas
By now, the figures are clear: the socioeconomic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic has derailed progress toward gender equality globally...
Read MoreRethinking Companies’ Offer and Positioning in a Transformed Tourism Scenario
Valeria Rubello
& Silvia Perino Vaiga
As tourism recovers we see that the way people travel, the experiences they look for and, consequently, the services they demand have changed for good...
Read MoreDelivering on Net-Zero Commitments with Climate Action Plans
Taniya Thomas
To deliver on thousands of bold targets, companies must now rapidly increase the development and implementation of credible climate action plans...
Read MoreNext Chapter: Integrated Growth for Climate
Avantika Singha
The climate situation in emerging economies such as India is more complex—balancing growth and sustainable development from private companies...
Read MoreClimate Change Misinformation in the Age of COVID-19
Daniella Lebor
Published ahead of COP26, a new report by Logically and APCO Worldwide found a worrying link between climate change misinformation and COVID-19 conspiracy theories...
Read MoreClimate Déjà Vu in the Global Vaccination Campaign
Elena Riva
& Mikaela Zimmermann
It’s hard to miss the pattern stressed by activists who have observed that low-income countries are left behind in the fight against climate and COVID-19...
Read MoreA Clear Framework for the Biden Administration’s Approach to China Is Emerging
Rosalind J. Reischer
& Ryan Morgan
Biden’s overall approach to Beijing will be iterative, pragmatic and marked by lower-profile changes on the margins—rather than a grand change in strategy...
Read MoreJapan’s Economic Security Agenda Under the New Kishida Administration and How It Directly Affects Business
Masaya Takasaka
& Yuda Chou
Japan is caught in a situation where it needs to balance its national interests in the context of the ever-increasing geo-political and economic rivalry...
Read MoreA Talent Acquisition Advertising Guide During the “Great Resignation”
Jonathan Ewing
The campaigns with the best results are collaborative between communications and talent teams and provide a full-funnel approach to talent acquisition. ..
Read MoreA Unique Opportunity: Creating Meaningful Change Through Our Work
Elizabeth Duncan-Watt
& Elle Arlook
& Tracy Mathews
As the world’s largest women-owned and independent advisory and advocacy communications consultancy, it’s our responsibility to not only celebrate the work we’ve done so far, but to continue to push ourselves to do more and to do better...
Read MoreHow Organizations Can Put an End to a Cycle of Crises
Katherine F. Mackinnon
& Jim Moorhead
By planning for problems that are likely to pop up and how to mitigate them, organizations will be better prepared to combat those issues when they arise...
Read MoreNavigating the Uncharted Waters of eGaming Regulation in Asia
James Yi
Policy leaders in the region often find themselves in uncharted territory, with scenarios that do not have a ready-made model for governance. Companies must therefore enter this conversation to share insights, expertise and policy recommendations...
Read MoreIn Memorium: Lars Göran Johansson
Margery Kraus
We are profoundly saddened by the loss of Lars Göran Johansson, a valued member of our International Advisory Council and dear friend to APCO...
Read MoreUNGA Week: Climate - APCO Forum
John Defterios
& Heather McGeory
In the final edition of our UNGA week series, climate takes center stage as Climate Week concludes and the world looks ahead to the G20 and COP 26 later this year...
Read MoreMeeting the Unique Challenges of Higher Education Crisis Communication
Pete Wentz
As colleges and universities respond to crises on a daily basis, management of those crises often requires a different, more nuanced approach...
Read MoreUNGA Week: Food Security
Dan Glickman
& John Defterios
With conversations around the 2021 UN General Assembly in mind, this edition of APCO Forum covers the top factors that impact global food security, from climate change to the role of women in food production, from institutional responsibilities to the innovation needed to boost production, increase nutrition and reduce waste...
Read MoreWhat to look for in the 2021 Federal Election in Germany
Johannes Sibbor
By the end of 2022, Angela Merkel, once called the leader of the free world, will have ended her chancellorship in Germany. Angela Merkel leaves a gap, and the Bundestag elections on 26 September will be decisive in determining who will succeed her in office...
Read MoreUNGA Week: Women, Peace & Security
Judit Arenas
& John Defterios
Nothing showcases the theme of this year's UN General Assembly as clearly as the issues facing women and girls. From gender equity to economic empowerment and security to the deep impact of COVID-19, any discussion of solutions to global challenges needs to include the impact and role of women. In this edition of APCO Forum, we explore these topics with experts who have been at the center of policymaking and solutions at the UN for decades...
Read MoreUNGA Week: Geo-Commerce and China
James Robinson
& James McGregor
& Teresa Lu
& John Defterios
This edition of APCO Forum focuses on the policy and geopolitical priorities of Chinese leaders at the UN General Assembly. The issues they will address support China's higher goals of national rejuvenation and to reestablish itself as a great global power...
Read MoreUntangling Vaccine Diplomacy
Diego de Leon Segovia
The influence of COVID-19 vaccinations extends beyond the pandemic, changing how we conduct scientific research, travel and even geopolitics...
Read MorePreventing and Fighting Disease Through Food Security
Dan Glickman
With global leaders understanding the impact of food security on the global economy, we must adjust our understanding of how to combat food insecurity...
Read MoreOne Company, Two Systems: ‘Ringfencing’ China Operations
Mark Michelson
Many firms are doubling down on China and Asia as the focus for the company’s growth for at least the next 3-5 year cycle...
Read MoreThe Verge of the Climate Change Abyss
Heather McGeory
As we look to COP26, there are three key signals we need to see to demonstrate that we are stepping away from that abyss...
Read MorePlaying with Fire: Why We Need to Decouple Climate, Trade and Human Rights
James Robinson
Climate policy, trade and human rights will be defining features and they have become three inflammable ingredients in shaping the bilateral relationship...
Read MoreMultiplier Partnerships for Inclusive Recovery: APCO Forum
John Defterios
In this edition of APCO Forum, our Anna Tunkel and Hala Hanna, managing director of MIT Solve, focus on the power of multiplier partnerships...
Read MoreUNGA Week Kickoff: Introducing APCO Forum
Margery Kraus
& Brad Staples
& John Defterios
In this edition of APCO Forum, Margery Kraus and Brad Staples join host John Defterios to preview what to look for this week at and around the 2021 UN General Assembly...
Read MoreEquipping a New Generation of Whole-Health Citizens
Nancy Turett
We must raise a new generation that is health-literate, and empower the fresh, open minds and hearts of young people to help lead the way...
Read MoreThe Future of Digital Health: Policy, Privacy and Access
Emily Scherberth
Without changes in policy, privacy & access to care, the adoption and further expansion of digital health services, may be limited...
Read MoreBuilding a Successful E-hospital Industry: Lessons from China
Nina Zholudeva
In China, e-hospitals were already widespread prior to COVID-19, with the pandemic providing further impetus for their development and continued adoption...
Read MoreArtificial Intelligence In Health Care Is Exploding – What Does It Mean?
William Pierce
We are on a pathway toward great discovery in the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases. AI is is expected to play a crucial role..
Read MoreDigital Health in India–Its Advent and Rise
Dr. Joyeta Ghoshal
India launched the Digital India campaign to transform the country into a knowledge economy, with on-the-go access to information, governance and services...
Read MoreCyber Crooks Target Colleges and Universities as Students Return
Brian Keeter
Institutions are at growing risk for financial, reputational and operational harm because of long-standing cyber vulnerabilities across higher ed...
Read MoreScoring High: Opportunities and Challenges for Multinationals in China’s Sports Industry
Nina Zholudeva
& Howard Kwong
China set a goal to become a global sports power. This market is lucrative for multinational companies if they understand the opportunities and challenges...
Read MoreInclusion is Now a Business and Policy Imperative
Hilary Brandenburg
As the corporate world aligns around an ESG framework and stakeholder capitalism, leadership is must put equity and inclusion at the center of the agenda...
Read MoreThe “Return-to-Workplace” Policies That Will Bring Moms Back
Denielle Sachs
& Akinyi Ochieng
& Elizabeth Duncan-Watt
Work doesn’t work for moms, and work-life balance is an illusion. Employers fail to provide the basic policies and practices moms need to thrive...
Read MoreExpanding the Stakeholder on Japanese Stakeholder Capitalism
Miho Tsunoda
& Seiko Indo
Japanese companies lag behind others in their evaluation of management of ESG issues – particularly the S; why is this and how can it be improved? ..
Read MoreHow Companies are Rethinking Employee Engagement to Win the War for Talent
Katherine F. Mackinnon
& Kimberly Gardiner
Now is the moment for companies to craft creative engagement solutions to entice employees — particularly women — to return to and remain in the workplace. ..
Read MoreA Pause to Relook at the Relevance of ESG
Avantika Singha
The pandemic forced people across the world to a standstill, giving us an opportunity to observe the cornerstones of growth, especially in the Global South...
Read MoreNew Expectations Across the Workforce Value Chain
Jeff Zelkowitz
& Julie Jack
& Judit Arenas
Employees know their worth but some workers are missing out and remain unseen and underrepresented in the move toward a fairer and more equitable workplace...
Read MoreReaching True Gender Equality: The Hard Work Begins Now
Jennifer Butte-Dahl
The 2021 Generation Equality Forum resulted in a Global Acceleration Plan, recognizing that while action is the goal, we are not moving quickly enough...
Read MoreThe New Israeli Government
Noam Ivri Adanani
The new government that emerged following the internal violence was thus forged by pragmatic compromises from the various sides of the political spectrum...
Read MoreView from the IAC: President Biden's First Foreign Trip
APCO International Advisory Council
Our IAC assessed Biden’s first foreign trip and the recent meetings of the G7 and NATO and its impact on the international business community...
Read MoreIdentity Starts with "I"
Judit Arenas
& Luis Enrique Fernández Torres
Identity is about showing people the truest version of yourself. This topic has not always been easy to navigate for some, especially in the workplace...
Read MoreLooking back at the Portuguese Presidency
Gregoire Zammit
& Christoph Mielke
After six months of intense work, the Portuguese EU Council Presidency is ending...
Read MoreNo Pride Without Equity
Licy M. Do Canto
It is a time to reflect on the the progress of the LGBTQ+ community, the trailblazers who led us here, the individuals we lost and the journey ahead...
Read MoreCelebrities: Just Like Us in a Post-Pandemic World
Kika Chatterjee
Due to the pandemic, we have all let the world virtually into our homes. COVID-19 has tested the fourth-wall tension between celebrity sheen and authenticity...
Read MoreBalancing Sustainability, Consumer Demand and Public Perception as Aviation Rebounds
Alex Gibson
As the aviation industry rebounds after COVID-19, there is a question of how airlines will meet their sustainability goals as global travel demand grows...
Read MoreThe Trends Dominating Our Current News Cycle and What It Could Mean for the Travel Industry
Simone Manlove
Travel is trending and leaders in the travel ecosystem should embrace this limelight to further their value stories with key audiences and stakeholders...
Read MoreVaccine Passports or Certificates: In One Form or Another They May be Here to Stay
William Pierce
& Wayne L. Pines
One of the tools available to us to help achieve durable control over the virus is what is referred to as vaccine passports or certificates...
Read MoreReshaping Tourism through Partnership and Accountability
Silvia Perino Vaiga
The sudden halt to tourism activities in 2020 caused losses of jobs and income, making it evident how some communities are largely reliant on tourism...
Read MoreDriving Social Good through Arts and Culture in the Post-Pandemic World
Nozomi Sasao
The shared experience of art evokes a sense of togetherness–feelings that have become invaluable in this peculiar time of self-isolation and solitude. ..
Read MoreRegulation of the Online Gaming Industry in India
Rahul Sharma
& Adip Puri
& Yash Kansal
The online gaming industry is changing with high demand and likely to grow. It is watched by users, developers, financiers, regulators and technocrats...
Read MoreTechnological Self-Sufficiency in China’s 14th Five-Year Plan
Ryan Morgan
The following are some thoughts I shared on technology’s central role in China's 14th Five-Year Plan and implications for businesses...
Read MoreFour Steps Before Your First (Or Next!) Cyber Attack
Brian Keeter
Now is the time for a proactive, strategic approach to protecting your business, non-profit or university from the cyber pandemic that has surged with the increasing popularity of remote work and the growing sophistication and boldness of cyber crooks. Regardless of your level of cyber security, here is a four-point plan for what you can do now to protect and prepare. ..
Read MoreSolidarity, Community and Celebration: AAPI Resource Guide
Nicole Robertshaw
This resource guide will teach you some things you might not know about AAPI leaders, communities and actionable steps you can take to fight for equality...
Read MoreBuilding Empathy Through Storytelling
Julie Wang
For AAPI Heritage Month, several APCO employees provided their own testimonies in order to celebrate understanding of our community’s lived experience...
Read MoreAAPI Representation in the PR Industry
Josh Cheung
We sat down with Josh Cheung, creative director at APCO Worldwide, to discuss his experience and perspectives as an Asian American in the PR industry...
Read MoreMeaningful Event Participation in China
Wendy Chen
Due to the stability of the China market, companies have prioritized building relationships with major stakeholders in China through events and expos...
Read MoreData is Key to Accelerating Gender Equality
Jennifer Butte-Dahl
All stakeholders, including governments, businesses and foundations, must commit to using gender data to guide their decision and commitment making...
Read MoreCombating Event Uncertainty in 2021
Suemya Shabab
It is evident that the benefits of virtual connection are strong. Event organizers must have contingency plans in place with the pandemic's end in question...
Read MoreFuture of Post-COVID-19 Partnerships
Dasha Iventicheva
Post-competitive partnerships were accelerated by the pandemic like in the pharmaceutical industry, leading the way in developing life-saving vaccines...
Read MoreModel Minority Myths
Anti-Asian sentiment and antisemitism stems from the perception of these groups having advantages that they don’t actually have—the “model minority” myth...
Read MoreChina’s New Urbanization Strategy
Nina Zholudeva
The Chinese government introduced a “new urbanization” strategy, which offers ample opportunities for multi-national companies to support and benefit from...
Read MoreAAPI Communities are Not a Monolith
Jimmy Koo
& Nicole Robertshaw
More than 50 years after the term "Asian American" was first used, AAPI communities are struggling with inequality, racism and identity as Americans...
Read MoreThe UK's Innovation Strategy
Holly Muirhead
The UK will compete independently on the global stage to become a science superpower and they are putting their hopes in research and innovation...
Read MoreWebinar: Newsroom Diversity
Licy M. Do Canto
& Lauren Pellek
Lack of diversity in the newsroom impacts coverage and impartiality – diverse voices breed greater understanding and helps develop more informed opinions. ..
Read MoreWebinar: Action on Climate Change
Margery Kraus
Biden’s Leaders’ Summit on Climate was more than a moment of cooperation between heads of state, but a call for businesses to step up alongside governments...
Read MoreMental Health: Combatting Stereotypes and Stigmas
Priya Ramanathan
& Shivangi Gupta
Black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) face many additional challenges and inequities when it comes to mental health...
Read MoreQueen's Speech Prospects 2023 Election
Richard Blunt
Today’s Queen’s Speech made the prospects of a general election in 2023, and possibly a second Scottish independence referendum, look a lot more likely...
Read MoreAlgorithms for Good
Bruce Ramshaw, M.D.
There are many algorithms developed to do good but lack an understanding of the data science principles that allow them to benefit all people. No algorithm is perfect, but there are ways to design algorithms that can improve outcomes for all people over time. ..
Read MoreAAPI Heritage Month: Solidarity, Community & Celebration
Priya Ramanathan
We hope to demonstrate solidarity in the fight against racism, while also creating space for healing, education and collaboration as a diverse community...
Read MorePost-Pandemic Healthcare and AI Transformation
Sharon Alvares
To what extent will AI-aided systems replace or augment existing technologies as the role of frontline care staff is being reshaped by computers that can monitor cases, analyze data and directly deliver basic care...
Read MoreDigital Transformation Priorities in Italy’s Recovery Plan
Paolo Compostella
Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan places great emphasis on the green transition and on the digital transformation..
Read MoreUnlocking Data Analytics is Transforming Communications for Organizations
Bill Dalbec
There’s a lot of talk today about “analytics,” “data science” and “machine learning.” How these are defined and how they are applied differ depending on who you’re talking to, the field they work in and what their expertise is...
Read MoreTransitioning to a Safe and Secure Technological Future
Daniel Becker
As companies develop new and revolutionary technologies and our society irrevocably shift towards greater online interaction and presence, so do the dangers of technological shortcomings.
..
Read MoreOptics & Occasion Favor President Biden’s Big Speech
David Kusnet
When he addresses a joint session of Congress tonight, President Biden will likely use low-key rhetoric to advocate an ambitious agenda, from rebuilding the nation’s physical and social infrastructure to strengthening American families, dismantling systemic racism and addressing climate change...
Read MoreLeadership's Role in Accelerating Progress
Kelly Williamson
Kelly and Jason came together to discuss the role of leadership in creating impactful, lasting change, and how leaders can instill a sense of bravery/empowerment across the entire culture of a company...
Read MoreEssential Bytes, Ep. 4 – Deconstructing Disinformation
Dan Smith
& Nicole Monge
Disinformation isn’t new, but in today’s digital world, it's as omnipresent as it is nebulous. How can we combat such a pervasive threat without finding ourselves playing an endless game of whack-a-mole? What role do individuals, platforms, and companies play in turning the tide against bad actors and towards a renewed emphasis on fact-based reporting and messages grounded in truth?..
Read MoreMENA Tech Trends for 2021
Sharon Alvares
& Abdullah Sahyoun
We challenged our own assumptions about the state-of-affairs and trends likely to have the most profound impact on life and work in years to come...
Read MoreDeconstructing the Value of ESG
Julie Jack
The question of “why aren’t we getting credit?” is a common one. The answer is complex, but the following insights yield some answers and a possible prescription:..
Read MoreWomen*, Equity and Purpose in the Workforce
Elizabeth Duncan-Watt
& Nicole Monge
Unequal pay is hardly new but with a global pandemic and its disproportionately devastating impacts on women—in the pandemic, women have lost a net of 5.4 million jobs—we are facing a true crisis...
Read MoreLessons Learned from One Year into COVID-19
Linda Barnhart
We have now arrived at a significant milestone where companies and organizations should take stock of what’s worked, what hasn’t and what they can and should be doing to prepare themselves for the next “unprecedented” event...
Read MoreIsraeli Elections 4.0: Political and Business Implications
Noam Ivri Adanani
APCO co-sponsored a webinar with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce assessing initial takeaways of the previous day’s election in Israel, with attention to business and political implications. ..
Read MoreCommemorating the UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Kelly Williamson
As we consider the year behind us, and all that it entailed, Claire Boussagol and Kelly Williamson share their thoughts on the events of the past year, and how APCO is working to ensure an inclusive and accessible work environment for all its employees. ..
Read MoreSEC Tackles Climate Risk
Jeff Zelkowitz
The Biden-Harris administration has hit the ground running in determining that climate change poses one of the largest risks to U.S. economic and financial security...
Read MoreChina’s 2021 Two Sessions and Its Impact on Multinationals
Alistair Burlinson
Get APCO's analysis of the Two Sessions, including analysis of the 14th Five Year Plan and details on the impact on multinationals. ..
Read MoreCOVID-19: A Sign to Address Climate Change
Anusha Sharma
Although there is no country that is not experiencing the drastic effects of climate change, as a populous, tropical emerging economy, India faces a bigger challenge than others in coping with the consequences. ..
Read MoreIsrael's March 2021 Election Essentials
Noam Ivri Adanani
& Tal Been
Get caught up on what you need to know about the factors and figures involved in Israel's March 2021 election via this report from APCO's team in Tel Aviv. ..
Read MoreDevelop Corporate Sustainability Strategy
Colin Reisser
Following the adoption of the Paris Agreement in 2015, global progress on addressing climate change appeared to slow for a number of years. In the absence of strong and coordinated political action, companies came to realize that they could take climate action substantially faster than political systems...
Read MoreNavigating Gender Equity in a Pandemic World
Katherine F. Mackinnon
As we celebrate this year’s Women’s History Month, we must recognize that we very much stand on the shoulders of those women who came before us and created space in the workplace for us. Holding that space, and retaining women in the workforce, is our collective responsibility...
Read MoreShow, Don’t Tell: Companies Need a Net Zero Roadmap
Jeff Zelkowitz
The world is at a tipping point. ESG risks and opportunities are making their way into substantive conversations in the C-Suite and Boardroom about business as a platform for change. Every journey needs a roadmap. Communicators can help their organizations redefine market leadership and chart their path on their journey of stakeholder capitalism, ESG and decarbonization...
Read MoreIn Memoriam: Geoffrey Lace, Founder of PRWeek
Margery Kraus
& Brad Staples
We honor and remember Mr. Geoffrey Lace, who sadly recently passed away at the age of 74. We salute Mr. Lace’s entrepreneurism and his everlasting legacy, and extend our deepest condolences to his family during this difficult time...
Read MoreImproving Global Healthcare Access to Accelerate What’s Right
Stephanie Tan
If COVID-19 has a lesson for us with regards to health, it is this: our social environments matter just as much as our DNAs and lifestyle choices. Experts are cognisant of the fact that joblessness, lack of education and racial inequities are part and parcel of the problems that need to be fixed...
Read MoreEU-China CAI: Opportunities for EU Multinationals in China
Bruce Fu
On December 30, 2020, after seven years of dialogue, the European Union (EU) and China announced, the conclusion in principle of the EU-China Comprehensive Agreement on Investment (CAI). In a deal which is highly political in nature, which sectors of EU business stand to benefit the most?..
Read MoreWhat is the Shelf Life of Racial Justice?
Charlene Wheeless
Company leaders need to reimagine the business case for diversity, dig deeper and focus on the systems and power structures within their organizations that elevate one group of people and diminishes another. This is hard work. It requires self-examination to understand our own biases and how we contribute to the systemic issues that exist...
Read MoreDiverse Hiring: Seven Ways to Help Your Business Thrive
Semhar Tesfay
As the economics of business changes, corporations need to reelevate their talent strategy to compete globally. Diversity is a business imperative and not just "the right thing to do." Building a more inclusive workforce offers different perspectives and provides the innovation, creativity, and acceleration of positive change that companies need to ensure long-term success...
Read MoreAccelerating Philanthropy: How We Must Evolve to Address Racial Justice
Stephanie Green
The traditional philanthropy sector is having its own reckoning with race—confronting its roots in wealth disparities and paternalistic, colonial approaches, and moving towards justice-centered giving, redistributing power and investing in community-led solutions...
Read MoreAccelerating What's Right With Data
David Sánchez Carmona
With great knowledge and insights come with great responsibility and as business and organizations select how to use data towards their business activities, none can claim data neutrality. There are clear business and cost-effective strategies to mitigating racial and prejudice bias, but above all, these offensive applications affect people’s lives and should be open to scrutiny and accountability...
Read MoreCarbon Neutrality and NEV Growth in China: What’s Next for Foreign Players?
Anthony Marchese
In September 2020, President Xi Jinping declared that China would be carbon neutral by 2060. This goal has provided fresh impetus to accelerate the development of China’s New Energy Vehicles (NEV) industry...
Read MoreSuper Bowl LV Ad Review: The Greatest Ever
Bill Dalbec
When it comes to advocacy and adding to societal value, this year's Super Bowl was again one where only a handful of ads rose to the level of the brands recognizing and embracing their strengths...
Read MoreWhat I Want to See in the Big Game
Bill Dalbec
This month’s Super Bowl LV will be different. There will be a limited number of fans inside the stadium and likely (hopefully) fewer large watch parties. Adding to the disruption of this annual spectacle are the numerous long-standing brands that have decided to take a pass and not advertise in the game...
Read MoreThe Biden Administration’s First 100 Day Healthcare Agenda: Pandemic, Pandemic, Pandemic
William Pierce
While the Biden administration can be expected to have a robust healthcare agenda beyond the first 100 days, the president understands that getting the pandemic under better control is critical to making progress on other issues. As a result, his first 100 days will be all about the pandemic...
Read More2021: An Opportunity to Build a Better and Healthier World
Margery Kraus
As 2021 kicks off, let’s think about the kind of society we want, because we have an opportunity to rebuild society better, healthier and more supportive. While change won’t happen overnight, we can make the choice to do better not just for ourselves and our businesses, but also for the people who lost their lives, livelihoods and loved ones over the past year...
Read MoreA Comprehensive Biden Environmental Agenda Must Include Water
Richard VanOrnum
As the Biden administration prepares to take the reins in Washington, one of the sharpest policy pivots is expected to be in environmental and climate policy. Water crises, including droughts and floods intensified by climate change, are among the greatest tangible risks to business and geopolitical stability...
Read MoreWhat Businesses Can Expect from the Biden Administration’s First 100 Days
Rosalind J. Reischer
It’s going to be a packed first 100 days for the Biden administration, setting the tone for an eventful four years. There’s much for business leaders to be optimistic about—a return to rules-based trade; more predictability; and more balanced and less mercantilist policymaking. And while some new geo-commercial risks will undoubtedly arise, there should be tremendous opportunities for savvy cross-border trade and investment...
Read MoreRegulatory Change in a Time of COVID-19 Creates a Challenging 2021 for Big Tech
Benjamin Faull
Globally, antitrust scrutiny and enforcement remained robust with the focus on big tech continuing to grow. There now appears to be competition amongst regulators themselves as a wave of investigations are launched and new tools proposed to regulate digital markets...
Read MorePortugal Prepares for the Aftermath of the Pandemic
Christoph Mielke
& Gregoire Zammit
Portugal will take over the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union on January 1, 2021. Lisbon is following Germany and preceding Slovenia as part of the so-called ‘GPS-presidency’ trio, marking the fourth Portuguese EU Council Presidency since the country joined the European Economic Community in 1986. The following overview has been developed in cooperation between the APCO team in Brussels and our partner agency in Portugal, ATREVIA. This Presidency Guide outlines the challenges that lie ahead and how companies can address them...
Read MoreStatement by Margery Kraus on the January 6, 2021 Storming of the U.S. Capitol
Margery Kraus
I strongly condemn the actions of these cowards and believe that law enforcement should take the strongest actions against those who callously desecrated U.S. democracy and all the values it is meant to represent...
Read MorePhilanthropic Best Practices for Companies in 2021
Jennifer Butte-Dahl
Best practices in philanthropy are indeed shifting as we approach 2021. While there is no one organization doing it all perfectly, foundations looked to as leaders are in front of the trends and are working with urgency to address the broader range of historic criticisms of being “top-down, closed-door and expert-driven.”..
Read MoreFor Health, 2021 Will Be More Than a New Year…it Will Be a New Era
Nancy Turett
2020 has delivered certainty to us all about health. We now know that it is an existential asset not only for individuals but for business and society as a whole. Now, as vaccination makes working, playing and loving without wearing a mask a realistic prediction for 2021, leaders of all ilk need to make operating as the one humanity we are a new status quo...
Read MoreTrends and Tremors Shaping our World in 2021
Brad Staples
Smart businesses will spend next year embedding fully new structural changes, being more inclusive, and adapting to a new work mindset. While COVID-19 left an indelible mark on us all this year, 2021 will bring different, possibly greater, but certainly connected challenges...
Read MoreCOVID-19 in 2021: Is Your Company Ready?
Barie Carmichael
& Charlene Wheeless
If COVID-19 ushered in new issues for your company in 2020, just wait until 2021. Bridging the period between the pandemic and widespread COVID-19 immunity will require thoughtful policies that further define your corporate legacy and how you live your values...
Read MoreThe Moment for a Global Water Movement
Richard VanOrnum
In 2021, it is time for water advocates to turn their Achilles’ Heel into their secret weapon, reaching outside their comfort zones to engage, enlist and activate new allies. It’s time to assert water’s connective place among the pressing issues—climate, food, energy, health—facing our blue planet, which is becoming more and more thirsty by the moment...
Read MoreLooking Ahead to 2021: Key Business Sectors and Issues
Valeria Rubello
& Theo Moore
& Robert W. Kopitsch
& Jeff Zelkowitz
Looking ahead to 2021, APCO Worldwide’s business experts analyzed potential trends and provided their predictions for the new year—examining the future of hospitality, global energy, financial technology and capital markets—where all signs point to continued focus on health, tech and safety...
Read MoreLooking Ahead to 2021 in Asia
James McGregor
& James Yi
& Anusha Sharma
As 2020 comes to a close, APCO’s experts in Asia reveal their regional business predictions for 2021. From China and India to Southeast Asia, the forecasts point to a dynamic new year with global dialogue and market opportunities...
Read MoreWill 2021 Really be the Year for Women? It has to be.
Judit Arenas
& Nicole Monge
2021 is a time for long, overdue change. This is the year when everyone needs to take a hard look at what commitment they will make to promote gender equality and how they will action it. Because without action on these commitments, women will slip further into economic and societal inequality...
Read MoreWill 2021 Be a Year of Rebound for Retail?
Lars Petersson
The retail sector is going through a disruption accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. There are several important cornerstones of the transformation that successful retail companies need to have in order to survive and grow through 2021 and beyond...
Read MoreLooking Ahead: 2021 Digital Trends
Rachael Mierzwa
The core digital principles of knowing your audience, listening, having a clear message, building trust with your audiences in credible ways, and being authentic and transparent still matter...
Read MoreMedia in 2021: Earn it, Own it and Share it
Iris Shaffer
The media landscape has been changing and contracting for years, and will continue to do so in 2021. Content is still the key to successful media coverage and here are a few ways to prepare your media programs for the year ahead...
Read More2021 and Beyond: Ideas for Britain’s Future
APCO Forum
With coming to an imminent resolution, and the first vaccinations already starting to roll out, what will the next 12 months hold for UK businesses and government?..
Read More2020 Proves Corporate Purpose is More Important Than Ever
Linda Barnhart
& Ben Marchman
Corporate purpose has increasingly become a watchword for companies looking to distinguish themselves in the modern era. 2020 has proved that the future is uncertain, change is ever-present and those companies that react quickly and adapt to uncertainties are better placed to come back stronger...
Read MoreHow Can We Make European Health Data Governance Models More Patient-Centric?
Gregoire Zammit
The COVID-19 crisis has been an eye-opener for many stakeholders, especially national governments, and has revealed that sharing health data is essential for enabling positive health outcomes and more sustainable health systems in Europe...
Read MoreRCEP: Key Regional Trends for Multinational Companies
APCO Forum
Read and download APCO's full report on RCEP, which includes country-specific analysis from APCO Worldwide’s consultants on the responses from around the region...
Read MoreHas Germany set the European Transport Sector on the Path to a Digital Transformation?
Marc Krüger
Following years of ideation and feasibility analyses, the real-world use cases of 2021 will provide the first benchmarks for governments and industry players throughout Europe and thereby serve as a first indicator of whether the upcoming Council Presidencies will progress with Germany’s “New Mobility Approach.”..
Read MoreHow to Achieve Healthcare Celebrity Status
Julie Orsini
As a global population, we’re leaning in to science and the scientific community more than ever before—representing a critical inflection point for healthcare communicators and marketers...
Read MoreCrisis Communications is Key to Healthcare Cybersecurity Planning
Richard Chen
Now, more than ever, the integrity of the healthcare industry depends on resilient proactive and reactive cybersecurity measures. Assembling a cyber crisis communications plan is a business decision that represents an organization’s commitment to its customers and reputation...
Read MoreChampioning Female Tech Leaders of the Future
Lottie Wistow
Only one in six tech specialists in the UK are female, with only one in 10 of those being in leadership positions. Regardless of increasing efforts by some companies to improve, it’s clear female representation in the technology sector is still seriously lagging...
Read MoreThe Need for a European PASTEUR Act
Sture Alne
The effect of existing antibiotics has perpetually diminished due to increasing development of resistance, hence securing a robust pipeline of new antimicrobials is more important than ever...
Read MoreGermany’s EU Council Presidency is Coming to an End, but the Financial Sector’s Digital Transformation is Here to Stay
Olga Natalia Pawlica
& Karen Anciaux
Even with Germany’s EU Council Presidency coming to an end, it is expected that digital transformation in the financial sector will still be a widely discussed topic in 2021, in particular, as it intertwines with other legislative plans at the European level...
Read MoreWhat the U.S. Election Means for U.S. Policy Toward China
Rosalind J. Reischer
Companies should expect the U.S.-China relationship to continue to be characterized by deep friction, regardless of which party is dominant in Washington come January...
Read MoreEssential Bytes: The Role of Social Impact
Elizabeth Duncan-Watt
& Nicole Monge
& Dan Smith
A rising social consciousness fueled by the rapid evolution of digital communications has compelled companies to make social impact a core tenet of strategic program development. Corporate social responsibility has evolved from sidecar activities to bolster reputation to strategic investments in concrete action connected to larger purpose and impact strategies for the business, more and more often with C-Suite buy-in...
Read MoreWhat to Expect from China’s “Dual Circulation” Strategy
Freda Zhang
& Anthony Marchese
The Chinese Communist Party leadership recently came together at the Fifth Plenum to review and formulate the country’s next Five-Year Plan (FYP). This context provides insight into the role “dual circulation” will play in future reforms...
Read MoreUS 2020 Election Update – Thursday, November 5, 2020
Dan Scandling
In today’s report, we are inching closer to a potential result in the presidential race. We also cover the latest on the Senate and House races, the makeup of state legislatures, and an update on the corporate reaction to the election...
Read MoreUS 2020 Election Update - The Evening After
Dan Scandling
Our afternoon report also includes the latest on congressional races, state and local results, a number of high-profile ballot initiatives that will have an impact on several industries, and the corporate reaction to the election...
Read MoreUS 2020 Election - Early Results
Dan Scandling
Election Day is now complete, with days (and possibly weeks) remaining until a winner of the presidential race can be determined. Get early results and analysis from APCO's Public Affairs team in D.C...
Read More2020 Election Night Returns Guide
Nicholas Whyte
APCO's election experts once again have your guide to election night – showing the time we expect to know the results of the 2020 votes in each state. ..
Read MoreComms Lessons from the 2020 US Presidential Elections
Mamoon Sbeih
& Brandon Neal
APCO MENA President Mamoon Sbeih guest hosts The Brief from MEPRA in an episode titled “Communication Lessons from the 2020 US Presidential Elections.”..
Read MoreI Vote Because… Part II: Six Takes from APCO Team Members
Edwin Feliciano
& Julie Jack
& Jack Kalavritinos
& Pete Wentz
APCO Worldwide’s adVOcaTE campaign consists of efforts designed to help get out the vote and elevate APCO employees’ voices as they advocate for what they believe in, during and beyond election year. Six members of the APCO family, who are parents, share their thoughts on why they’re voting this year. ..
Read MoreHow Europe Responded to the Black Lives Matter Movement
Silvia Perino Vaiga
The summer of 2020 felt like a historical turning point. As the pandemic continues to unravel across the region and disrupt every aspect of society, from workplaces to education, the unprecedented support for the Black Lives Matter movement in Europe offered a glimpse of hope...
Read MoreBlack Swan or Boomerang: Trajectories for Geopolitics in the 2020s
James Robinson
In 2016, the American electorate delivered a black swan outcome that has had profound implications for people everywhere. Their choice next week will set the trajectory for the post-pandemic global order of the 2020s and beyond.
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Read MoreUnderstanding and Tackling Voter Suppression
Dan Meyers
Many companies are taking the extra steps to encourage their employees to vote. But, the next—and more significant—step to watch for is whether these companies will publicly advocate for proactive measures to expand access to voting at the state and local levels...
Read MoreEurope's Strategic Autonomy
Christoph Mielke
& Gregoire Zammit
It has been a buzzword for several years, but the concept of Europe’s ‘strategic autonomy’ has really gathered more attention over the last months in light of the COVID-19 crisis...
Read MoreI Vote Because… Four Takes from APCO Team Members
Prateek Allapur
APCO Worldwide’s adVOcaTE campaign consists of efforts designed to help get out the vote and elevate APCO employees’ voices as they advocate for what they believe in, during and beyond election year. Four members of the APCO family share their thoughts on why they’re voting this year. ..
Read MoreFostering an Environment for Difficult Conversations
Kelly Williamson
2020 has shown that we must celebrate the good things, and perhaps as important, we must directly address the challenges. This means we have to be comfortable with having difficult conversations. ..
Read MoreImmigrants—We Get the Job Done (But Need to Vote More)
Jimmy Koo
Since 2000, the size of immigrant electorate in the United States nearly doubled, and in 2020, naturalized citizens make up a record 10% of eligible voters in America. It is time for immigrant electorates to, not only get the job done, but to get their votes in as well...
Read MoreStrange Bedfellows – EU and Chinese Dreams on Divergent Paths
Howard Kwong
Both the United States and China have been trying to engage Europe as a counterweight amid their rivalry. Despite China’s wish to sustain a cordial relationship, the EU’s harder stance towards China on a range of issues leaves more questions than answers...
Read MoreThree Leadership Lessons from RBG
Kelly Williamson
The passing of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is sad news in a terrible year. Her legacy is a testament to her view that “real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time.”..
Read MoreTwo Cheers for ESG from U.S. Regulators
Jeff Zelkowitz
ESG investing has become impossible for regulators to ignore. With the market moving fast, regulators are beginning to co-develop common practices and frameworks that have, until now, largely been left up to companies, shareholders and financial market participants...
Read MorePolicy Prospects and the Future of Transportation Infrastructure
APCO Forum
Listen to the webinar APCO hosted featuring Former U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood to discuss critical policy prospects and the future of transportation infrastructure...
Read MoreWarning Signs: Geopolitical Headwinds for Multinationals in China
Rosalind J. Reischer
Despite the turbulence contributed by both the U.S. and China over the last few years to the bilateral relationship, China still presents significant commercial opportunities for multinational companies. However, companies must be able to navigate this heightening tension by establishing trust in a business environment increasingly being drawn into the political fray...
Read MoreJoin Me in Making Election Day a “Day On”
Kelly Williamson
I am delighted to introduce “adVOcaTE,” a campaign consisting of internal and external education and engagement efforts designed to help APCO employees prepare to cast purposeful votes, share their voices and continue their efforts fighting for what they believe in..
Read More“Conventional” Lessons in Virtual Event Programming
Steve Salvador
Like America’s major political parties, companies all over the world are grappling with how to re-engineer a live event, especially one that has strategic importance to their business. There are some useful lessons emerging from the Democratic and Republican National Conventions about what’s working, and what’s not, in virtual event programming...
Read MorePSG v. Bayern Final: Who Scored Big With Fans Online
Olga Natalia Pawlica
APCO's digital team in Europe used a qualitative approach, that focused on the cultural contexts surrounding online conversations, to gained interesting insights into how various audiences interacted online to create a unique fan experience that was more virtual and unlike any other Champions League final ever before...
Read MoreEssential Bytes: Grassroots Advocacy with Phone2Action
Dan Smith
& Nicole Monge
While person-to-person interaction is at an all-time low as we struggle to flatten the curve of COVID-19 cases, grassroots advocacy and social media engagement is at an all-time high. Phone2Action’s Stephanie Stouffer, an APCO alumna, joins our hosts on the latest episode of Essential Bytes to discuss the unique opportunities presented by the unified collectives emerging online in the wake of COVID-19 and renewed calls for social justice...
Read MoreCelebrating Women’s Equality Day 2020
Margery Kraus
To help commemorate Women's Equality Day, we hosted a special conversation featuring Irene Khan, the United Nations Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression and Opinion, to discuss COVID’s disproportionate impact on women, the changing expectations of balancing work and family life and the work still ahead to ensure women’s equality...
Read MoreLeadership for Global Security: Can Germany be an Honest Broker?
Judit Arenas
2020 is a turbulent year and global leadership is in short supply. But as the United States is focused inwards, the UK is hampered by Brexit, France is in perennial economic crisis, and China and Russia are engaged in promoting their own political priorities. Can Germany fill the void?..
Read MoreThe UAE-Israel Normalization Agreement: Business Opportunities and Geopolitical Implications
Noam Ivri Adanani
& Lana Osher
The normalization promotes new opportunities for investments in Israel and the UAE, removing political barriers that may have hindered past region-wide cooperation...
Read MoreThe UAE-Israel Normalization Agreement: Looking at the Underlying Motivations
Noam Ivri Adanani
& Lana Osher
In seeking a normalization agreement with one of the most influential and technologically advanced Arab countries, Israel has sought to establish a new paradigm, in which its regional relations and integration are not necessarily preconditioned on progress in the Palestinian peace track or pan-Arab ideological solidarity...
Read MoreThe UAE-Israel Agreement to Normalize Relations: A New Middle East?
Noam Ivri Adanani
& Lana Osher
Israeli and Emirati officials are to meet in the coming weeks and sign agreements constituting this “Abraham Accord,” regarding issues such as the establishment of direct flights, investments and trade, technology and health cooperation, and the opening of embassies, among other topics...
Read MoreC-Suites Need Communicators!
Liam Clarke
At a time when hyper-connectivity makes decisions and their consequences widely visible and with perceptions affecting an organization’s bottom line, communicators need to be part of the C-suite...
Read MoreRecap: Brazda Breakfast Briefing with Dr. Anthony Fauci
William Pierce
At the August 6th Brazda Breakfast briefing, an event sponsored by APCO and hosted by our partner, The Alliance for Health Policy, Dr. Anthony S. Fauci walked over 60 reporters through what we know now about COVID-19, how it spreads, where it is spreading, the status of vaccine development, and most importantly, what we all can and should do to slow the spread...
Read MoreWhat’s Next for U.S. Drug Pricing and Production
Jack Kalavritinos
Watch the discussion of the policy and political ramifications of recent executive orders, how drug pricing actions will resonate considering the pandemic and which of these policies might move forward in 2021...
Read MoreIntroducing Essential Bytes: Episode 1
Dan Smith
& Nicole Monge
Welcome to Essential Bytes, where APCO’s team of digital strategists discuss their perspectives on the latest digital news, reveal challenges they’re facing and highlight the opportunities that lie ahead for brands online...
Read MoreWaking Up: Accelerate What’s Right
Kelly Williamson
We must check ourselves to ensure that we go deeper into the right sets of actions versus spreading ourselves too thin, show progress instead of just talking about it amongst ourselves and ensure that this is a commitment we all feel obligated to join—because the future of our country, our communities, our workplaces and most importantly people’s lives, require it...
Read MoreKeio University Adovacy Campaigning Lecture Recap
Masayo Nagai
As a leading global company in public affairs and strategic communication, APCO's Tokyo office had the opportunity to hold a lecture on advocacy campaigning with a class of international and Japanese students at Keio University...
Read MoreChina’s 5G Rollout: How Foreign Companies Can Benefit
By 2025, China is likely to be the world’s largest 5G market, with both public and private sector organizations in market demonstrating that virtually any industry can benefit from it. A glimpse at China’s 5G progress and applications can help foreign companies to understand how they can become part of the story...
Read MoreFor U.S. Organizations, Recovery Plans Begin Within
Linda Barnhart
It is important for organizations to understand that while the pandemic has tested their resiliency like never before, their long-term viability depends upon the consumers who will ultimately judge them on their ability to effect real change...
Read MoreDown to the Wire
Nicholas Whyte
Every seven years the EU is convulsed by negotiations over its budget—the Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF). The narrative is familiar and repetitive: predictions of stalemate and catastrophic breakdown are at some stage transformed into grumpy acceptance of a new deal with sweeteners for everyone. The question is, when will that transformation happen?..
Read MoreLessons from the Wirecard Scandal and the Potential for Acting Bold in the Aftermath
Robert W. Kopitsch
& Olga Natalia Pawlica
Today, many in Germany consider the current Wirecard AG scandal as “their Enron moment.” By grasping this crisis, Minister Scholz stepped up to start the debate around the insolvent Fintech asking the obvious questions of how and where the oversight system has failed...
Read MoreThe Road Ahead Beyond Pandemic and Shutdowns
Jack Kalavritinos
As we have discovered over the past few months, the construction industry has shown that staying open safely during the COVID-19 pandemic can lead many sectors—from energy to transportation—to continue serving the public...
Read MoreIndia and China: Old Cold Borders, New Cold War
Rahul Sharma
A military standoff between India and China in northern Ladakh, along a long-disputed border, has stirred up serious tensions which could have enormous geopolitical consequences for a world battling a pandemic for which many blame Beijing. The relationship between the world’s two most-populous nations can be seen through five different prisms, each of which is playing a role in deciding where ties are today and where they are likely to head in the future...
Read MoreHow Restaurants & Retail Businesses Can Outsmart COVID-19
Scott Conklin
& Ellie Rutland
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to surge in certain parts of the United States, restaurant and retail sectors are caught in the middle of a political and public health tug-of-war. While tactics to safely reopen stores and restaurants continue to evolve, discussions are turning to how to adapt to phased reopening orders while building consumer confidence and coming up with new ways to secure financial viability. With uncertainty abound, how are restaurant and retail businesses charting the future?..
Read MorePublic Affairs in the COVID-19 World
Masayo Nagai
Leading experts in the field share their insights on conducting public affairs in the COVID-19 era...
Read MoreMaintaining Public Trust Through Responsible Privacy Practices
Kim Gagné
The aftermath of the COVID-19 crisis will inevitably feature renewed efforts to protect the privacy of individuals...
Read MoreCSR and Advocacy After COVID-19
Deanna Javadi
While there still are many uncertainties about what the post-COVID-19 reality will look like for society, observers and experts agree that the format, focus and expectations around social advocacy will change. As a result, companies should evolve their original CSR pathway to meet new social and consumer environment...
Read MoreFive Lessons PR Pros Can Learn from Dungeons & Dragons
Riley Templeton
Even if you’ve never heard of Dungeons & Dragons, you’re familiar with the fight to get your messages out. It’s a battle to cut through the noise and reach your audiences. Sometimes competitors and the news cycle seem like monsters. So, we’re taking a page from the Player’s Handbook. Here are some lessons communicators can learn from our favorite tabletop roleplaying game...
Read MoreThe Silver Lining to Our Struggles with Online Learning
Jennifer Butte-Dahl
The COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges we have faced globally to support learning have also, once again, brought to light significant inequities in the opportunities available to young people who have access to high-speed internet and those who do not...
Read MoreCOVID-19 Made the Case for More EU on Health, but will There be any Meaningful Changes?
Christoph Mielke
& Gregoire Zammit
The COVID-19 crisis has given a boost to those who want the EU to play a bigger role in health. Only time will tell if EU Member States are really willing to take the jump and commit to a true “Europe of Health.”..
Read MoreCommunicating in a Post-COVID-19 Landscape
Nicole Monge
& Bedoor Khalil
COVID-19 has had a profound impact around the world. The use of digital technology to facilitate effective communication has intensified and cutting-edge tech is booming...
Read MoreWill COVID-19 Be the Catalyst for an E-learning Revolution?
Tom Short
The COVID-19 crisis has proved that while it’s possible to provide the vast majority of learning virtually—and schools and universities around the world should be given huge credit for achieving what they have in such a short space of time—the sudden and complete shift to e-learning has put significant pressure on the families of school-aged children...
Read MoreChina’s 2020 Two Sessions: What It Means for Your Business
APCO Forum
China's Two Sessions opened on May 21 and served as an opportunity to demonstrate control over the pandemic and outline a blueprint for the country’s future development...
Read MoreRecognizing the Role and Responsibility the Food Industry Plays in All of Our Lives
Maureen Dempsey
The COVID-19 crisis has put a unique spotlight on food and food systems, revealing both strengths and weaknesses across sectors and practices. In some ways, it has placed consumers on a level playing field, but also exposed some deep inequalities...
Read MoreHow Can CEOs Generate Media and Social Media Attention During a Crisis?
Media relations and social media communications are more important than ever during this time of fast-paced news cycles and endless Twitter debates, driven by the global COVID-19 pandemic...
Read MoreLooking Ahead: The New Israeli Government’s Main Challenges and Themes
Noam Ivri Adanani
& Tal Been
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the new Israeli government will operate under “emergency” status for the first six months, advancing legislation solely related to the virus and its impact...
Read MoreIsrael’s New Government: Two Camps Under One Roof
Noam Ivri Adanani
& Tal Been
On May 17, 2020, Israel’s 35th government was sworn in, actualizing a power-sharing agreement between incumbent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Blue and White party chief Benny Gantz...
Read MoreHow to Make Your Advertising Stand Out in the Crowded COVID-19 Pandemic Landscape
Mac Struthers
Research demonstrates that it is critical for brands to use their advertising to amplify their COVID-19 efforts and solidify their role in the community. As you develop advertising messaging here are three things to focus on as you build the right message...
Read MoreThis Time It’s Different for Financial Services
Jeff Zelkowitz
In the financial sector, leaders who are able to read the emerging social landscape—and are willing to lead through their values and actions—will have the most opportunities to come back from the COVID-19 pandemic stronger...
Read MoreThe German Constitutional Court’s Ruling and the EU’s Constitutional Certainty
Nicholas Whyte
The German constitutional court recently caused huge waves with its 5 May ruling on the legality, under German law, of the European Central Bank's bond purchasing programme—an essential element of the EU’s plan to reduce the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic...
Read MoreThe Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area in 2020
Howard Kwong
While the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area plan has reached a number of milestones, it has faced several setbacks. Foreign companies that tailor their strategy to the plan’s ambitions and priorities are best placed to benefit from its ambitious agenda...
Read MoreHow can the Food Industry Come Back Stronger from the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Eliot Hoff
& Dan Glickman
The food industry, from farms to restaurants to retail to the tables of consumers, has been upended by COVID-19. This has resulted in a forced shift in the supply chain and could change how the world produces and consumes food well into the future...
Read MoreThe Future of Travel: Mapping Predictive Trends in the Tourism Industry
One of the most jarring consequences of a pandemic in our interconnected world has been the restriction of individual movement. The freedom to travel, locally or abroad, has been limited. Beyond canceled vacations, the travel, tourism and hospitality industries have been crippled and only recently, experts began imagining the future of travel in a post-COVID-19 world...
Read MoreWe’re Spending More Time Online: What Does That Mean for Digital Advocacy?
Rachael Mierzwa
The world has changed and while you need to be aware and evolve, you can’t go quiet until you need your advocates again. A campaign that is nimble in managing against the evolving landscape and demonstrates an understanding of who its advocates are and what information they need to be able to take meaningful action is always going to be impactful. ..
Read MoreHow Can Health Systems Come Back Stronger From the COVID-19 Pandemic?
William Pierce
& Kavita Patel
& Peter Urbanowicz
The COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally impacted how health systems and hospitals operate. In a recent roundtable discussion, APCO Worldwide Senior Director Bill Pierce spoke with APCO International Advisory Council Members Kavita Patel and Peter Urbanowicz about what health organizations must do to Come Back Stronger from this crisis...
Read MoreStart Today to Come Back Stronger Tomorrow
Kelly Stepno
& James Robinson
Resilient organizations must act now to establish their foothold to come back stronger, recognizing there will be varying degrees of coming back...
Read MoreThe Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Brexit
Yves Bertoncini
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has made agreement on the future of the UK-EU relationship by December 2020 quite unrealistic...
Read MoreMaking this Moment Matter
Denielle Sachs
The current crisis has brought to the fore some of the most salient issues we face as humanity. The decisions we make now will either leapfrog our progress on these major challenges or cause us to slide back in time as we retrench and de-risk...
Read MoreAmericans Impacted by COVID-19 Look for Corporate Leadership and Empathy
Jeff Zelkowitz
The economic shock of COVID-19 is being felt by American workers and retail investors as the country registers 17 million applications for unemployment and absorbs painful stock market losses. A recent survey of 1,000 Americans conducted by APCO Worldwide offers insights for business leaders and communicators as they work to navigate the weeks and months ahead...
Read MoreIt Sure Doesn’t Feel Like an Election Year Anymore
Dan Smith
COVID-19 has forced the 2020 campaigns—much less our connections with friends and family—into virtual mode for the foreseeable future...
Read MoreJuggling Life During the COVID-19 Outbreak
Katie Sprehe
To get a better sense of how working parents are faring and how employers can help, APCO Insight conducted a pulse survey on March 31 of the U.S. general public and singled out parents working from home...
Read MoreKeir Starmer’s First Days Are Promising but Don’t Tell the Full Story
Gabriel Phillips
It has been less than a week since Sir Keir Starmer was elected leader of the UK Labour Party yet it already feels like a lifetime. With the party still reeling from its historic loss in the December General Election and Coronavirus dominating the news cycle, the opposition’s challenges are significant but not insurmountable...
Read MoreProtecting Reputation and Engaging Healthcare Workers During and After COVID-19
Richard James
COVID-19 is creating challenges never seen before in many of the nation’s hospital health systems. The new normal is creating a threat to staff health, morale and confidence in their leadership...
Read MoreHas the Circular Economy’s Moment Finally Arrived?
It is in the times of adversity that radical transformations are often easier to achieve. The global pandemic offers a key moment to rethink the way we consume and operate and make a positive change to become truly sustainable and circular...
Read MoreA ‘New Normal’ for Healthcare Communicators Post COVID-19
Sara Cruz
As painful, bewildering and traumatic as the past few weeks have been for businesses and society at large, one thing is clear: what we should really be hoping for is a return to ‘a new normal’—a world where we apply the many learnings of the current crisis and emerge stronger...
Read MoreTips for How to Shoot Video on Mobile
Steve Salvador
As more of the world works remotely, video allows us to remain seen and heard. But when the situation calls for recording video with a mobile phone, how can you ensure you look and sound your best?..
Read MoreSeven Pointers for Turning an In-Person Event Virtual
Dave Burke
While in-person events may be the preferred method for many gatherings, virtual events can—with proper planning—be an effective way to educate, engage and inspire your audience...
Read MoreBeijing’s COVID-19 Stimulus Will Be Aimed at Tomorrow’s Infrastructure
Ryan Morgan
The greatest opportunity in this time of crisis are for companies to demonstrate their know-how and expertise through partnering in “new infrastructure” projects. Besides the potential to partner on large-scale endeavors, companies that are actively engaging with China will shape tomorrow’s infrastructure standards and lay the foundations for long-term success...
Read MoreStorytelling in a Time of COVID-19
Iris Shaffer
& Lauren Pellek
Navigating our new world in this time of crisis is not easy. From a media relations and storytelling perspective, now is the time to be sensitive and thoughtful, and to lay the groundwork for the future. ..
Read MoreIn Memoriam: Roger Hayes
Margery Kraus
& Brad Staples
We send our deepest condolences to Roger's family during this difficult time and encourage you to share your thoughts and memories of Roger in the comments...
Read MoreEngaging Employees During and After COVID-19
Kimberly Gardiner
COVID-19 has moved faster than any country or company could have imagined or prepared for. Focusing on your organization’s purpose can help employees feel a sense of normalcy and ensure that they are thinking about the future...
Read MoreEmpowerment Through Advocacy
Casey Johnson
The most impactful piece of advice, which I learned in a rather unorthodox way, is to advocate not only for yourself but for your teammates as well. This simple lesson in transparency and advocacy is even more relevant today, as companies consider diversity, equity and inclusion practices at greater lengths...
Read MoreHold on to Hope and be Resilient
Agnieszka Zieminska Yank
The way I have been coping is by consciously noticing and intentionally acknowledging the many bright spots in our daily lives and keeping things in perspective...
Read MoreThere’s Always Room for Women at the Table
Ginna Royalty
Women's History Month reminds us that taking the time to have meaningful conversations and to discuss these crucial issues is critical to enacting change, but that more can and should be done...
Read MoreYou, Me and Equality: The APCO Way
Uzma Lodhi
Diversity of thought makes society and businesses stronger and more resilient. At APCO, we know that diverse thinking spurs creativity, unites teams and enhances client services. ..
Read MoreBuilding the Next 100 Years of Women’s Empowerment
Margery Kraus
While stressing the importance of celebrating our past, The Next 100 focused on creating a better future for the next generation of young female leaders. I hope that crafting a new narrative through actionable steps will inspire our employees, current and future, to build this new reality...
Read MoreMaking Healthcare as Diversified as we Need it to Be
Nancy Turett
If there’s one silver lining to the dark pandemic cloud hanging over all of us, everywhere, it’s that we can apply the rude awakening to our shared vulnerabilities to accelerate a more proactive, preventative and protective approach to health...
Read MoreNavigating Global Stimulus Plans
Frank Lowenstein
For potentially eligible companies, it is critical to understand all of the options available and to move as efficiently as possible to apply for and receive the funds which they are entitled to, and to position themselves for relief under future stimulus packages...
Read MoreD&I In Financial Services: Views from Three Industry Leaders
Jeff Zelkowitz
& Beth A. Brooke-Marciniak
& Wendi Strong
& Marcia L. Page
To accelerate diversity and inclusion in the financial services industry, CEOs need to set the tone at the top, organizations need to embrace system thinking and data around talent management and brand-builders need to instill empathy to create more inclusive growth..
Read MoreAre Brands Meeting Consumer Expectations During the Crisis?
Darren Bosik
Intelligence from APCO Worldwide’s proprietary COVID-19 Response Index (CRI) show that brands such as Starbucks, McDonald’s, and Pepsi are underperforming in consumer online conversations despite having pushed out messages of reassurance, hope, and health...
Read MoreNow More Than Ever, Diversity is a Financial Imperative
Jeff Zelkowitz
As companies face unprecedented challenges due to the global pandemic, it is more important than ever before to have diverse representation in management decision-making...
Read MoreGulf Employees Look to Governments for COVID-19 Guidance
Mamoon Sbeih
New research from APCO Insight shows that concerns about the impact of COVID-19 are high in the Arabian Gulf...
Read MoreFive Questions to Assess an Authentic Corporate Purpose
Margery Kraus
& Barie Carmichael
Performance data increasingly demonstrate superior long-term financial results from companies taking action on Social, Environmental and Governance (ESG) factors material to their business. Profit and purpose are not mutually exclusive. ..
Read MorePlanning to Come Back Stronger is Critical in a Crisis
Kelly Stepno
For organizations, the economy and our communities to thrive when we come out of this global crisis, we must plan now. There are steps that organizations can take to help establish a stronger foothold, so we all come out of this stronger. ..
Read MoreBest Practices on Working from the Homefront
Julie Jack
& Kimberly Gardiner
With a significant number of employees now working remotely, how can organizations ensure that their people are productive, engaged and connected? We share some trends and best practices...
Read MoreHow Social Media Can Help and Hurt During COVID-19
Nicole Monge
As industry professionals, we have a responsibility to seek the truth and only share information from credible sources. As people and a community, we must always strive for an univocal relationship with the truth in everything we share...
Read MoreThe Critical Role of HR Communication in Times of Crisis
Agnieszka Zieminska Yank
As the coronavirus outbreak rapidly progresses, HR departments across all companies can and should be fully engaged and at the forefront to demonstrate caring and become part of the solution. ..
Read MoreBuilding a Virtual Culture: The Remote Workforce
Katie Sprehe
The coronavirus is leading many companies in the United States to encourage their employees to work from home. While many miles may separate them from their onsite colleagues, a new APCO Insight survey of U.S. employees shows that remote workers are not so different from their in-office counterparts. ..
Read MoreIsraeli Elections 3.0 Analysis
Noam Ivri Adanani
& Lana Osher
Following two failed attempts to form a government, Israelis went to the polls again on March 2, 2020, for an unprecedented third time in less than a year. APCO's Tel Aviv team provides insights and analysis on the results...
Read MoreImportance of a Positive Workplace Culture and How to Build It
Rahul Sharma
Workplace culture reflects the company’s overall personality but essentially, it is the environment that surrounds us all the time. A positive culture drives productivity, efficiency, increases retention, promotes teamwork and reinforces an environment that encourages growth...
Read MoreCreating a Culture That Boosts Employee Engagement
Miho Tsunoda
Today, enhancing the engagement of employees is critical to a company’s near and long-term successes and helps to retain the best talent. Based on our experience in Japan, here are three key elements that global companies should consider...
Read MoreHow to Build a Culture in Your Company That Lasts
Uzma Lodhi
For any business, building a culture does not happen overnight. It is a process that needs to evolve over time and allow for wider interpretation to include a wider set of stakeholders, as the business grows. But for now, the question is: where to does it start?..
Read MorePutting Meaning Back in Purpose
Julie Jack
Over the last five years, the idea of “purpose” and the role it can play in creating alignment and driving value for an organization and its employees has gained a lot of traction...
Read MoreTurning ESG Commitments into Action
Hilary Brandenburg
In recent years, ESG, sustainability, inclusion and diversity have become common buzz words in business, particularly in financial services. Executives understand that they need to promote these issues to attract top talent and improve their bottom line, and top companies are now racing to do this better than their competitors...
Read MoreGenerational Viewpoints on Workplace Culture That Lasts
Pete Wentz
& Lelia Busch
With four generations working together, today’s workplace offers a wide range and dynamic combination of experience, expectations and priorities. We asked three APCO Worldwide colleagues to share their views on the workplace, how it has changed and what they see as the most important future considerations for companies as they look to create a culture that is inclusive for a multi-generational workforce...
Read MoreTrust in Leaders Emerges as a Pivotal Workplace Factor for 2020
Kimberly Gardiner
Employees are seeking more than just a paycheck and benefits in the jobs they hold. Crucial are top executives’ integrity and candor, along with the organization’s mission and values...
Read MoreBrexit Phase 2: Time to Shape the Final Deal
Yves Bertoncini
& Nicholas Whyte
With the UK Prime Minister adamant that he wants to conclude the next phase of negotiations on the future trading relationship by 31 December, this leaves an unprecedentedly short period to avoid a cliff-edge “hard” Brexit. As the phase 2 negotiations kick off, APCO’s team in London, Paris and Brussels examine the negotiating positions of the UK and EU, and the prospects for a deal...
Read MoreSuper Bowl LIV Ad Review
Bill Dalbec
Much like the game itself, Super Bowl LIV advertisers played it pretty safe with their offerings. Bill Dalbec, managing director of APCO Insight, takes a closer look at the commercials, companies and brands that aligned to a higher purpose of advocating on behalf of their key stakeholders on game day...
Read MoreAmerica Speaks: Super Bowl LIV Edition
Bill Dalbec
A new APCO Insight survey of 1,000 U.S. adults finds most Americans are planning to watch the Super Bowl, with high engagement about the well-hyped commercials and a slight rooting favorite...
Read MoreKey Lessons from China's Coronavirus Epidemic
Stig Albinus
While Chinese and global public health officials fight the current coronavirus epidemic, it is important to step back and examine the underlying causes of this outbreak. We are likely to see a continuation of infectious disease outbreaks and epidemics in the future and learning from this epidemic may help prevent or mitigate the impact of future epidemics...
Read MoreTaking Stock of the US-China Phase One Trade Agreement
Ryan Morgan
& Anthony Marchese
APCO’s Greater China team takes a closer look at the U.S.-China Phase One Trade Agreement and assesses where the deal is now, compared to where the two countries started...
Read MorePurpose and Social Risk in the New Age of Leadership
Margery Kraus
The last decade has shown us that our world is getting more complicated, and as we begin 2020—and the 50th anniversary of the founding of the World Economic Forum (WEF)—it is an opportune time to reflect on the changing nature of corporate leadership...
Read MoreTaking a Stand: How Companies Should Choose Their Messages
Evan Kraus
In today’s era of polarizing politics and gridlocked policy, companies’ ability to take a stand is becoming more important than ever before. While selecting an appropriate cause can be challenging, it can also be extremely rewarding, both financially and reputationally...
Read MoreGlobal Leadership in 2020 and Beyond
Claudia Fritsche
Given the disruptive changes that we are witnessing in many parts of the world, the notion of leadership takes on a different meaning. Communication, emotional intelligence and soft skills are more important than ever before...
Read MoreThe Last 2020 Digital Trends Post You Need to Read
There have been countless 2020 trends posts written as we enter the new decade. APCO's European digital team takes a closer look at which of the many-predicted trends will matter most to our industry in 2020 and beyond...
Read MoreHow Foreign Companies Can Contribute to China’s Evolving CSR Landscape
APCO Forum
As part of a push for high quality development, the Chinese government has increased calls for sustainability and environmental protection under the umbrella of “green development.” Under this context, an increasing number of socially responsible domestic businesses have emerged to demonstrate their role in supporting government priorities...
Read MoreDelivering on the Promise of AI in Healthcare
Christoph Mielke
Panelists agreed that the priority should be to ensure Europe’s capacity to compete in AI and to develop a good framework to attract investment, and incentivize industry involvement and innovation in healthcare. ..
Read MoreThought Leadership Opportunities Presented by Major Global Events in 2020
Miho Tsunoda
Major global events provide excellent platforms for companies to demonstrate and strengthen their thought leadership in tackling global issues, and some of the major international events that will take place in 2020 will help to develop tangible and intangible legacies for future generation...
Read MoreDesigning for the Good of our Planet in 2020
David Sánchez Carmona
As we look ahead to 2020, at least in an ideal world, every designer should be aware of the implications and effects of the tools we use, and the products, services, campaigns and brands we research, plan and enable across societies...
Read More2020 and Drug Pricing
Jack Kalavritinos
In the United States, the issue of how to address prescription drug pricing will certainly be a hot button topic ahead of the 2020 election. The time is now for pharma companies to act and offer real and impactful solutions that help patients, while calling out elements of the healthcare system that create barriers to access in exchange for profit...
Read MoreThree Challenges for Financial Services in 2020
Jeff Zelkowitz
Key trends, such as millennials beginning to turn 40, the need for technology to help people and ESG's new status as a must-have, not a nice-to-have, all present market obstructions for the financial sector. Companies need to rewire their strategic thinking, offerings and communications to connect with today’s customers, borrowers, investors and workforce...
Read MoreFour Other Elections to Watch in 2020
Nicholas Whyte
While the U.S. presidential election is set to dominate geopolitical discussion, there are four other votes, also scheduled for next year, for business leaders to keep an eye on around the world...
Read More2020 Trends and Tremors
Brad Staples
I foresee 2020 being a year which crystallises change. Organisations that are slow to adapt to the increased focus on the value of business in society may find it hard to recover their position in the eyes of consumers and even their own workforce...
Read MoreFive Workplace Trends Employers Can’t Afford to Ignore in 2020
Kimberly Gardiner
With five generations now working side-by-side in many organizations, we expect to see an even greater focus on internal communications in 2020 as companies understand the importance of keeping their generationally-diverse workforce informed and engaged...
Read MoreDigital Trends in 2020
Rachael Mierzwa
In the coming year, we will see brands investing more in analytics and finding new ways to leverage data sets to create customized, transparent and credible experiences that continue to inform and achieve quality (over quantity) results...
Read MoreChina’s Global Aviation Ambitions
China is set to overtake the United States as the world’s largest aviation market by the mid-2020s. Despite its slowing economic growth, the country’s booming middle class offers significant potential for future market expansion as more people opt for air travel, be it for business or leisure...
Read MoreInfluencing Europe’s Financial Landscape
Theo Moore
When looking to influence European financial policy, determining who matters, means organizations should focus on three interesting and important participants...
Read MoreMoney and Influence on Social Media
Melissa Petito
With many B2B and B2C audiences now getting their financial insights through social media, financial companies must consider incorporating digital influencers as part of a well-designed communications strategy. ..
Read MoreHonesty and Purpose: The Future of Influence
Evan Kraus
A recent APCO Insight survey measured the U.S. public’s perception of influencers, their motivations and what characteristics matter when evaluating their advice. APCO President Evan Kraus shares what it means for brands...
Read MoreEmployee Advocates: the Future of Stakeholder Engagement and Influence
Dale Vieregge
As the proliferation of social content from corporations and brands continues, the future of effective and authentic stakeholder engagement and influence lies in employee advocates...
Read MoreHow to Influence People to Engage in Your Advocacy Efforts
Dan Meyers
Influencing activists to effectively engage the target audience is difficult. Focusing on targeted and trusted outreach and highlighting the urgency of their own action can set an advocacy campaign apart...
Read MoreHow Health Companies Can Promote Shared Decision Making
James Tyrrell
Patient consumers are increasingly influencing the future of healthcare. In this competitive and democratized environment, health providers and companies need to become more agile in the way they communicate...
Read MoreDeveloping Future Generations Through Diversity & Inclusion
Four APCO colleagues share their impressions and takeaways from ColorComm Network's NextGen Conference, November 2019...
Read MoreStakeholder Primacy: Reconciling Competing Expectations
While it is often difficult to balance the competing demands of different stakeholders, business is under increasing pressure to meet growing expectations around the world...
Read MoreThe Future of DC Influence Must Include Digital
Bill Dalbec
When developing advocacy campaigns, organizations will do well to consider the impact of integrating digital communications intended for policy elites into their grassroots efforts and direct lobbying activities. Doing so will deepen their impact and put organizations in a better place to succeed...
Read MoreWhy the Digital World Makes a Happy Home for Fake News
Daniella Lebor
For people working in public relations and political communications, the notion of alternative facts presents many challenges. As an industry, we need to become more discerning about fact-checking to recognise exploitation for what it is, and more importantly to have an unambiguous relationship with the truth, whatever the channel or form of communication...
Read MoreHow Multinationals Can Influence and Build a Healthy China
Anne Wang
In China, significant opportunities exist for foreign enterprises to align with the government’s ambitious healthcare reform goals and influence the future of the country's health sector...
Read MoreCIIE: Pursuing Business Through "Pageantry"
Freda Zhang
APCO observed some noticeable changes on the ground that present opportunities for foreign companies to leverage the CIIE for public affairs purposes...
Read MoreLeadership Skills to Navigate Volatility and Uncertainty
Brad Staples
The challenges of today’s interdependent and interconnected world dictate responses and issue management that require leadership based on sensitivity, adaptability and agility...
Read MoreThe Spooky Life of a Creative
Tracy Mathews
While watching Evil Dead 2 recently for the 20th time, I suddenly realized horror tropes are metaphors for what it’s like to be a career creative sometimes. Here's how:..
Read MorePolitical Advertising: Twitter Makes a Change
Nicole Monge
Twitter is stepping back from political ads; what does that mean for issue and advocacy campaigns?..
Read MoreCEOs Today Must be Alert and Engaged
Brad Staples
APCO CEO Brad Staples joined Bloomberg Markets to share insights on the challenges that business leaders face today and discuss the need to engage on social issues in an informed and cautious way...
Read MoreStepping Up and Standing for Something
Nicole Monge
We’re operating in a divisive digital environment where people are actively advocating for issues, only engaging with brands that align with their values and being openly vocal about brands they think are doing it wrong. The pressure is on for companies to continually push towards and build authentic connections with their key audiences...
Read MoreThe Importance of Experience to the Traveler of the Future
Liam Clarke
Fundamental trends are shaping the future of the travel and hospitality industry. It will be those destinations that can adapt and cater to these evolving expectations that will succeed as travelers seek new and dynamic experiences around the world...
Read MoreIn the Digital Era, Consumers Are Taking the Lead
Lars Petersson
Flying under the radar has been a common strategy for many companies that did not want to be involved in sensitive issues. However, there is no space left under the radar today. The expectation is that companies act, and those actions must connect to their values and culture. ..
Read MoreMeeting the Demands and Expectations of Consumers of the Future
Katie Sprehe
To be prepared for tomorrow, companies need to build their reputation equity with the consumers of the future and the only way to do this is by being authentic. Companies need to act now by paying attention and showcasing their support for social causes...
Read MoreAdvertising to the Consumer of the Future
Elaine Kolish
Today, advertisers have more mediums than ever before to deliver their messages. Whatever creative messaging or clever medium is used in the future, one old-fashioned principle will continue to be critical to winning and retaining consumers—trustworthiness...
Read MoreMedia Relations for the Consumer of the Future
Iris Shaffer
Even with a shrinking number of print outlets, there are plentiful opportunities today to get our stories and messages in front of and shared among our target audiences. The way people consume media is going to continue to evolve, but the role of media relations in the communications mix remains complex and relevant...
Read MoreEvolved, Involved Creative
Julie Jack
For a long time, communicators have said that we need to reach, target and engage our consumers with great creative. Instead, we need to be expanding how we talk about creative to reach the consumers of the future...
Read MoreAre We on the Same Page?
Flor Marenco-Adelberg
APCO's Flor Marenco-Adelberg shares key lessons and takeaways from the Design Matters 19 conference in Copenhagen...
Read MoreHow to Engage at an Event When You’re Not Invited
Dan Smith
In today's world, how can organizations engage with important events that they weren't invited to? APCO's Dan Smith shares a few digital tips and tricks to make your presence felt at events, even if you don't have any boots on the ground...
Read MoreThe Journey Towards Stakeholder Value
Jeff Zelkowitz
The investors of today understand that successful companies need to be able to drive innovation and deliver transformative solutions that benefit customers and society...
Read MoreAssociations Rising
Bill Dalbec
APCO's 2019 TradeMarks study shows that, while trade associations may have their challenges, being an effective policy advocate is not one of them...
Read MoreThe Call for Institutional Leadership
Judit Arenas
In today’s world, where some multinationals are larger than national economies, and where a 16-year-old activist can mobilize more people than politicians, there is clearly a role for institutional leaders to lead the charge and serve as beacons of hope for solving the world’s most pressing problems...
Read MoreImplications of China’s Green Policy for Manufacturers
China’s participation in the 2019 UN Climate Action Summit, held at the UN Headquarters in New York on September 23, marks another major milestone in the development of China’s environmental protection policies...
Read MoreThe Role of Multilateral Institutions in Global Health
Andrei Goldis
With the global health community closely watching the UN's milestone High-Level Meeting on universal health coverage, Andrei Goldis takes a closer look at the World Health Organization's role in the evolving global healthcare landscape...
Read MoreHealthcare Progress Hidden in Plain Sight
Jack Kalavritinos
In healthcare, change is everywhere, affecting every patient and healthcare provider. More changes are coming, all with very few Rose Garden signing ceremonies. Buckle up for more change in 2020...
Read MoreTumultuous Climate for Climate: Multilateralism in Crisis
James Robinson
Addressing the climate emergency is on the top of the agenda for this year’s 74th meeting of the UNGA. While there will be a ton of popular activism and eye-catching business commitments, meaningful government collaboration may be lacking...
Read MoreIsrael’s Elections: No Winner, but the Loser is Clear
Roi Feder
For the second time in 2019, Israel went to the polls on September 17th. APCO team in Tel Aviv takes a closer look at the results, next steps and implications from the elections...
Read MoreWhat to Know About Targeting Individuals on Social
Julie Orsini
For organizations looking to use digital targeting to support their public affairs efforts, it’s important to understand what is and isn’t possible when it comes to individual or small group targeting using paid social, as well as best practices for reaching the right individuals and achieving the best result possible...
Read MoreA Guide to the New Italian Government
Matteo Martone
& Francesca Cima
& Valeria Rubello
After an unexpected summer crisis, Italy officially has a new government led once again by Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte. APCO’s team in Italy shares three things to know about the situation, and insights on key pieces of the government’s new agenda...
Read MoreAI in Healthcare: Hype or Hope?
Stig Albinus
AI has a huge potential to revolutionize healthcare, but over-hyping AI can undermine the credibility of the promise...
Read MoreHow to Navigate the Latest in the US-China Trade Situation
Jack Kalavritinos
Recent presidential tweets “ordering” U.S. companies to begin looking for alternatives to manufacturing in China raised many questions and concerns among business leaders. Looking forward, it’s critical for corporate leaders to stay informed and be prepared to act...
Read More5G in Israel: An Opportunity for Companies?
Lana Osher
& Noam Ivri Adanani
The impending launch of 5G has prompted what many consider to be a 21st century arms race. In Israel, 5G represents a window of opportunity for western multinational telecoms companies...
Read MoreHumanizing AI
David Sánchez Carmona
Organizations that follow best-in-class AI ethical principles will be the leaders in their unique competitive sets, and their collective intelligence increases the odds of AI becoming a better and more human partner in our lives...
Read MoreRiding the AI Communications Tidal Wave
APCO Forum
Artificial intelligence has unleashed a new wave of digital disruption, and we are already seeing its application and benefits across the communications industry spectrum...
Read MoreEmbracing the Brave New World of AI
Imad Lahad
With the rise of AI, we have the best tools in history at our disposal to solve complex problems. Companies need to stay ahead of the curve and embrace the change, or risk playing catch up...
Read MoreIsrael’s Second 2019 Elections
Lana Osher
& Alaa Khalaily
This is the first time in Israel's history that national elections are being held twice in one year. While the issues from the April elections remain core concerns for the Israeli public, here are some additional factors to consider in the lead up to the September elections...
Read MoreHow Agile Companies Will Attract Gen Z
APCO Forum
As new generations enter the workforce, what can APCO and others do to improve communication within teams and throughout offices?..
Read MoreMeta-influence: How do you Influence an Influencer?
Alexandre Marie Saint Germain
Understanding who and what influence decision makers online allows communicators to make more informed decisions about indirect influence strategies..
Read MoreHow to Win the Future: Tips from Future Festival
Emily Coghlan
& Emilie Schulze
As the media partner for Future Festival Chicago, we had the opportunity to participate in this unique and inspiring all-day conference. Here are our main takeaways...
Read MoreA Two-Speed Boris?
Will Browne
During the Conservative Party leadership election, in Boris Johnson’s first speech on the steps of Downing Street and after the most dramatic Cabinet reshuffle in decades, Brexit remains the number one concern of the British political class...
Read MoreBuilding an Agile Company
Julie Jack
& Joanna London
Companies have an unprecedented chance to use their vision and values to influence the social landscape, take a stand and make a meaningful difference. It is what society wants to see, and employees are demanding...
Read MorePrivacy and Security Starts With the C-Suite
APCO Forum
As executives grapple with growing consumer expectations and new regulatory regimes, standout companies will embrace these changing dynamics instead of hiding from them. But truly adopting values of protecting consumer privacy and baking in security measures by design requires the C-suite reaching outside of the standard chorus of voices, gaining insight from diverse perspectives...
Read MoreIt’s Time to Talk and Walk the Talk
Kelly Williamson
In today’s competitive business environment, a clear, well-thought-out set of vision and values, backed by action, can help organizations reach key business objectives, attract the best talent and protect their reputation...
Read MoreHow C-Suite Vision and Values Affect Employee Health and Wellness
Christoph Mielke
In a world where companies are desperately trying to attract talent, the bottom line is simple: when employees feel better, they perform better...
Read MoreRole of the C-Suite in Ethical Decision Making
Lily Reisser
While it’s less common to see someone getting praised in the press for their adherence to strict values, every health company we admire has a strong hand at the helm, guiding the company towards more ethical positions and setting an example for employees to make ethical decisions every day...
Read MoreThe North Star for Navigating Through a Crisis
Jim Moorhead
Vision and values are a covenant with external stakeholders. They are the promise made, and C-suite leaders need to ensure that the company’s vision and values are a corporate hallmark not an Achille’s heel during a crisis...
Read MoreCorporate Conscience: External Impact Driven by Internal Forces
A corporation’s conscience is the road map guiding company culture and foresight. A C-suite that clearly exemplifies and communicates how company philosophy will live and breathe is a crucial factor for whether corporate consciousness will remain trapped on paper or permeate the culture and drive a company to unity and success...
Read MoreActions Over Words: Living Corporate Values
Kimberly Gardiner
When it comes to effective values initiatives, it’s often less about the words that are used, and more about the actions that a company is willing to take to bring their values to life. Values need to be reflected in people’s day-to-day experience to truly resonate...
Read MoreWhat Would It Mean for Values to Drive Your Business?
Dale Vieregge
If you are truly committed to maximizing business performance, attracting and retaining the best talent, and contributing to a broader societal mission, then you also must do the work to define (or more ideally, co-create) your company’s core values, to establish internal programs and processes that reinforce them, and to integrate them into every aspect of the business, every expression of the brand. ..
Read MoreHow Brussels is Managing AI
Theo Moore
At a recent APCO Forum discussion in Brussels, participants discussed the opportunities, priorities and conditions for a thriving AI-powered industry in Europe...
Read MoreA New Prime Minister, Same Old Brexit? The View From Brussels
Nicholas Whyte
On 23 July, the UK will have a new Prime Minister. APCO’s experts in London and Brussels consider how the top two candidates would approach Brexit as Prime Minister, and how EU leaders are likely to respond...
Read MorePublic Affairs is at an Inflection Point in India
Adip Puri
After the transformation in PR prompted by digital, we are once again at another inflection point. There is an upsurge in public affairs today. There are a number of skill sets which go into making a successful 'Public Affairs' professional and inherent skill sets present in PR professionals uniquely positions them to take advantage and diversify their career opportunities in 'Public Affairs'...
Read MoreHow Elite Universities Can Recover from Admissions Scandals
Pete Wentz
Following the admissions scandals at some of the nation’s most highly-regarded universities, including allegations that athletic coaches received payments to admit students who had little or no experience, the universities took many of the right steps that a crisis consultant would recommend...
Read MoreThe UK’s Net-Zero Emissions Pledge Promises Opportunity
Gabriel Phillips
It has been almost nine months since the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change published its landmark report on global warming. The report shook the world with its warnings about the need to immediately cut carbon emissions or risk global catastrophe...
Read MoreThe Importance of Corporate Vision and Values
The role of the CEO as a business or corporate diplomat for their company reflects a reset in politics, business and society...
Read MoreNew Things in the Old World
Theo Moore
In the wake of Europe’s seismic political shifts, it is more important than ever to understand Brussels...
Read MoreThe Future of United States-Europe Relations
Tim Roemer
The transatlantic partnership between the United States and European allies has been the foundation of American foreign policy and economic priorities, but the unpredictable nature of recent developments has affected perceptions of United States-Europe relations: Americans aren’t quite sure what to think...
Read MoreWhy Supplier Diversity is Crucial for Driving Business Growth
Edwin Feliciano
Procurement optimization can add immense value to your business, and in an evolving social landscape, procurement organizations are starting to diversify their suppliers. Here are three important factors for diverse suppliers to keep in mind when forming relationships and negotiating with procurement officers...
Read MoreAdvice for Japanese Businesses Investing in Europe
Pietro Battistella
Europe is a very different place since the previous Japanese acquisition waves, and Japanese business leaders need to adapt their approach and be aware of the changes Europe is undergoing...
Read MoreThe Future of Europe’s Role in the Middle East
Nic Labuschagne
In the midst of fierce competition and seemingly occupied business space, there still are geopolitical, strategic and economic opportunities for European businesses...
Read MoreNavigating the Rise of Populism and Anti-Establishment Forces in Europe
Matteo Martone
The future of the European markets will likely see new shifts of power and a highly-fragmented political and social landscapes that companies need to be ready to navigate...
Read MoreThe Big Picture After the European Elections
Nicholas Whyte
As the dust settles from Europe’s continent-wide exercise of democracy, with politicians patting themselves on the back for the welcomed increase in voter turnout, what will the next five years bring for business?..
Read MoreRediscovering True Brand Purpose
Lauren Pellek
For many, corporate purpose has been co-opted and exploited. So, what can brands do to change that and take a meaningful stance?..
Read MoreCan We Cannabiz?
Lauren Pellek
Cannabis is quickly becoming the “next big thing” on the cusp of breaking through all aspects of society: from medicine and beauty to food and beverages. Here are three key elements for brands and communication professionals to consider when prepping for its U.S. market entry...
Read MoreDigital and Opinion Research is Key
Jim Moorhead
& Rachael Mierzwa
& Bill Dalbec
To quickly respond in a credible and effective manner, communicators must change their approach to crisis management. They must proactively utilize research capabilities to gain accurate, actionable intelligence on the issue at hand as well as the expectations of key stakeholder audiences...
Read MoreIsrael’s Second 2019 Elections
Roi Feder
After Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was unable to form a new coalition government, Israel's Knesset voted to dissolve itself and hold repeat elections...
Read MoreThe Evolving Media Ecosystem
Lauren Pellek
The traditional media industry is in a state of upheaval. To best counsel clients, as practitioners, we must not only keep abreast of new developments but understand how the evolving media landscape will affect our clients’ stories...
Read MoreIsrael’s New Personal Imports Policy
Roi Feder
& Noam Ivri Adanani
On May 12, Israeli Minister of Economy and Industry Eli Cohen signed a directive that greatly expands the terms and conditions for Israelis to conduct personal imports...
Read MoreAn India Perspective on the Battle for Talent
APCO Forum
India's significant employability gap is a real concern for global organizations operating in India, but it presents an opportunity for companies to partner with the government to ensure that there are an adequate number of bridge programs for the millions of fresh college graduates that pass through the portals of the education system year on year...
Read MoreEnterprising Culture: The Secret to Business Success
Kimberly Gardiner
During a time when half of leaders and mid-level managers anticipate challenges with hiring and retaining qualified workers, a strong Enterprising Culture can be a differentiating factor in future-proofing an organization...
Read MoreThe Office Environment of the Future
Richard N. Swett
In this highly competitive world where much is at stake, companies need to create as advantageous a work environment as possible for their employees...
Read MoreTo Win Today’s Top Talent, Organizations Must Be Flexible
Dale Vieregge
Today’s workforce is the most educated, globally-mobile, gender-balanced and ethnically diverse ever. To convert all of that potential energy into a world-changing force, organizations of all types, sizes and geographies must acknowledge the structural changes that have and are reshaping the employer-employee relationship...
Read MoreThe War for Talent
Natasha Angileh
"The war for talent" is not a new phrase, but even today, and perhaps even more so in the future, the war continues. To win, employers must continually keep abreast of what current and future employees are looking for...
Read MoreBuilding a Learning Culture
Courtney O’Connell
The way companies can stay ahead and meet the challenges of the future is by enacting key practices that contribute to a learning culture. Companies of any size can begin implementing these practices tomorrow to build a learning culture...
Read MoreIs the Public Ready for Facial Recognition Technology?
Katie Sprehe
It’s easy for conversations about new technology to devolve into fears of a dystopian world. To gain trust and bring the public along, the benefits of the technology must be clearly evident to justify the losses...
Read More2019 Belt and Road Forum Recap
Anthony Marchese
Deciding to participate in the Belt and Road has always come with the potential for economic opportunities as well as possible risks and challenges. Companies need to consider all aspects of potential partnerships...
Read MoreChina’s Social Media Landscape
Yitao Deng
How does China’s social media landscape differ from the west? Who are the biggest players, and how can foreign companies leverage them? Here are the three key things multinational companies need to know about China’s current social media landscape, and how it differs from the west...
Read MoreBriefing on the Medicare for All Proposal
William Pierce
At APCO’s recent Brazda Breakfast Briefing, health care experts, along with two former administrators for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, took questions from reporters about “Medicare for All” proposals...
Read MoreUnderstanding Your Audiences
Ido Aharoni
The audiences of today and tomorrow can no longer be reached through mainstream, traditional methods. To reach them with positions, concepts, ideas or products, business leaders and marketers must use the language of the new age of information...
Read MoreSocial Risk: Teaming up for Advocacy
Dan Meyers
Today’s polarized political climate has created a difficult advocacy environment for companies and associations to accomplish nearly anything. Ganging up on a problem together, while often difficult to corral, significantly increases the odds of success...
Read MoreEmployee Activism: A New Model for Business?
Katie Sprehe
The convergence of rising expectations of corporations, live to work culture and commitment to our company’s mission has given rise to this new phenomenon of employee activism. Business decisions need to take this into account...
Read MoreSocial Risk: Insights from APCO’s IAC
Steve Bartlett
& Elaine Kolish
& Nicholas Ashooh
& Orit Frenkel
To better understand the expectations placed on businesses by society and leaders today, we surveyed a select group of 16 members of APCO’s International Advisory Council (IAC), and asked them to share their perspective on social risk...
Read MoreDoes Your Company Know its Social Footprint?
Barie Carmichael
High expectations and the eroded control of the corporate narrative have joined forces to create a new category of enterprise risk: Social Risk. Companies who integrate social risk into their strategic planning will earn the license to sustainably operate in this new landscape...
Read MoreAnalyzing Israel’s 2019 Elections
Alaa Khalaily
& Noam Ivri Adanani
APCO Worldwide’s Tel Aviv team shares insights and analysis on the 2019 Israeli Elections...
Read MoreThe Tantalizing Promise of Machine Learning in Medicine
Stig Albinus
There are reasons to be optimistic and excited about the promise of machine learning in medicine, but the path and speed towards wider implementation is hard to predict...
Read MoreCrisis Management in the New Era of China
Freda Zhang
With nationalism on the rise globally, including China, foreign multinational companies need new guidelines to manage crises in China’s new era. ..
Read MoreWorking for Balance: 2019 Advice Report
APCO Forum
APCO’s North America 2019 Women’s History Committee created a report featuring advice, anecdotes and insights from our colleagues in North America about growing your career, mitigating bias, closing the gender gap and the workplace of the future...
Read MoreDesigning Learning Experiences for Leaders
Courtney O’Connell
I wanted to share some insights into the why we felt it was important to convene in person, why any other organization should consider doing the same...
Read MoreCan AI be Truly Unbiased and Inclusive?
David Sánchez Carmona
The expertise and frameworks to ensure that the mathematical foundation of AI and machine learning algorithms are ethical and fair has not kept up...
Read MoreSpecial Report: China’s 2019 Two Sessions
APCO Forum
APCO's Greater China team provides insights and analysis on China’s 2019 Two Sessions and shares what it means for global business. ..
Read MoreAgainst the Odds
Tracy Mathews
When I was a child, I knew when I grew up, I wanted to be a horse. Yes. A horse...
Read MorePerspectives From the 2019 UN Women's Summit
Judit Arenas
& Shivangi Gupta
This year’s annual meeting of the Commission on the Status of Women is rumored to be an even bigger gathering than the General Assembly with more than 9,000 representatives...
Read MoreA Guide to Israel's 2019 Elections
Alaa Khalaily
& Noam Ivri Adanani
Israel might not be the largest or most influential country in the world but APCO’s Tel Aviv office can guarantee that the upcoming Israeli Elections will have an effect on international relations in one form or another...
Read MoreAchieving Balance Around the World
Margery Kraus
Closing the gender gap and achieving balance around the world requires different solutions for each market and industry. However, each of those solutions will require that we hold each other accountable...
Read MoreW20: Helping Japan Balance for Better
Masayo Nagai
Although regarded as an innovative country in many ways, Japan still has a lot to learn when it comes to gender equality...
Read MoreReputation Management for B2B Companies in a B2C World
Katie Sprehe
It’s time for B2B companies to get on the bandwagon of paying attention to consumer expectations...
Read MoreAn African American Woman's POV on Diversity
Carrinne M. Cooper
Diversity is a purposeful adventure and should be approached as such. This is what we celebrate when we elevate months like Black History Month – we celebrate the journey of all of us together...
Read MoreNavigating Blackness In Acting
Chris Allen
When Chris began acting, he noticed a pattern of being assigned to racially-specific roles that were not as interesting as others. Chris brings insight into the similarities between acting in theater and working in a firm, and how he deals with people's prejudices...
Read MoreA Look at the Future of Health with Views from APCO’s Team
Caroline Starke
& Nicole Monge
& Stephanie Tan
& Seiko Indo
To better understand the future of health care, members of APCO’s global team took a closer look at the industry and shared analysis on the issues that will define the sector moving forward...
Read MoreLeading with Purpose in the Business of Health
Nancy Turett
The reality is that companies in the business of health have their purpose built-in: they exist to generate health. The question their leaders need to ask themselves is not how do we define our purpose but rather, how do we deliver on it? ..
Read MoreHealth Care Leaders are not Prepared for the Future
James Tyrrell
To better understand the future of health care, and the challenges the industry faces, we surveyed a select group of 18 members of APCO’s International Advisory Council (IAC) and Health Advisory Board (HAB)...
Read MoreWhat’s Next for Health Care on Capitol Hill?
William Pierce
When it comes to understanding what could happen in health care over the next two years, the guiding principle is maybe. Maybe the two sides will come together on a modest package of changes to federal law, or maybe they won’t. ..
Read MoreThe Future of Health
James Tyrrell
Health is always undergoing change – what is new today, will certainly be old by tomorrow. Actors in the industry need to understand how patient preferences are evolving and driving innovation...
Read MoreWhat 'Settlers' Teaches us About Global Trade
APCO Forum
Settlers of Catan is an apt metaphor for the geopolitical developments that accompany China’s rise to the world stage...
Read MoreNew Swedish Government With a Broad Reform Agenda
After an inconclusive election, followed by 131 days of political tug-of-war, Sweden finally has a government. Sectors affected by its reforms have a reason to work proactively to demonstrate what the reforms might mean to them, their customers, the climate and the economy...
Read MoreSuper Bowl LIII Ad Review
Bill Dalbec
Bill Dalbec, managing director of APCO Insight, takes a closer look at the Super Bowl LIII ads and what they mean for the brands behind them...
Read MoreJapanese Media Relations Insights for Communicators
Pietro Battistella
European brands are looking at Japan, the world’s third largest economy, as a new market to tap into. The Land of the Rising Sun is a market quite different from the West under many aspects. APCO's team shares insights on media relations in Japan...
Read MoreHow Leaders Can Be Effective Advocates in 2019
Dan Meyers
Leaders can be more effective advocates for their company, employees, shareholders, stakeholders, or constituents by considering several key approaches to be mindful of in 2019. ..
Read MoreDenmark Proposes Health Care Reform for Connected Care
Stig Albinus
As planned, the Danish conservative government last week published its proposal for a new health care reform in Denmark called "Patient First," intended to make the health care system in Denmark more patient-focused, better connected and with advanced quality of care and improved patient rights. ..
Read MoreHow Davos Sets the 2019 Leadership Agenda
Margery Kraus
The World Economic Forum continually demonstrates that we don’t wait for progress—we create it. The world will look to the outcomes of the World Economic Forum as a milestone in global progress. Let’s set the stage of a new agile world...
Read MoreActive Leadership with Views from APCO’s Global Team
Margery Kraus
Given that active leadership is such a key component to organizational agility, members of APCO’s global team took a closer look at which leaders are best positioned to succeed in a range of sectors and industries...
Read MoreIAC Insights on Global Leadership
Margery Kraus
Agility is key for businesses, organizations and governments to be successful in today’s complex and interconnected global environment. To better understand leadership in 2019, we surveyed a select group of 23 members of APCO’s International Advisory Council (IAC), and asked them to share their perspective on the current state of global leadership...
Read MoreWhat’s Next for Brexit?
Nicholas Whyte
The House of Commons 15 January vote against the UK’s Withdrawal Agreement was an extraordinary moment. For an incumbent government to lose on a major constitutional and international issue by more than two-thirds is unprecedented...
Read MoreWhat U.S. Health Care Can Learn From the Denmark
Stig Albinus
Population health has become a pivotal strategic focus for health systems and large provider organizations in the United States as they strive to improve quality of care and reduce costs for the entire patient care journey and focus on maintaining health and well-being of the patient population through preventative care - not just acute care...
Read MoreHow Companies Navigate the New Normal
Tina-Marie Adams
As corporate playbooks are getting re-written on a daily basis to keep up with this rapidly changing environment, companies are asking: How do I respond in this day and age? ..
Read MoreThe Twilight of Angela Merkel’s Chancellorship?
Johannes Sibbor
In Germany, the exploratory talks on forming a coalition government collapsed last night. The country faces political instability...
Read MoreAnalysis of President Trump’s Jerusalem Speech
Roi Feder
& Noam Ivri Adanani
On December 6, 2017, President Donald Trump’s address confirmed that the United States now recognizes Jerusalem as the Israeli capital. Roi Feder shares political and business analysis from President Trump’s Jerusalem speech...
Read MoreThree Pieces of Advice for Women Entrepreneurs
Margery Kraus
I feel I have a tremendous responsibility to train and mentor the next generation of women leaders at all stages of their careers, not just in our profession but in business generally. ..
Read MoreEU IP Incentives Framework Comes Under Revision
Earlier this week, on 28 May, the European Commission published its first proposal to review the European Union’s pharmaceutical innovation incentives...
Read MoreWill a Single-Payer System will Lead to Rationing
Stig Albinus
Majority of U.S. health care providers and opinion-leading consumers say single-payer system will lead to rationing of access to health care...
Read MoreAfrica Global Business Forum Highlights
Nic Labuschagne
On November 1-2, Dubai held a bi-annual two-day “Africa Global Business Forum” to explore new business opportunities between the Gulf countries and Africa...
Read MorePharma’s French Conundrum
Alexandre Marie Saint Germain
After nearly a decade of the French government trying to steadily decrease the price of drugs, it goes without saying that Emmanuel Macron’s pro-business program was eagerly anticipated by the pharmaceutical industry...
Read MoreItaly's Political Rollercoaster
Matteo Martone
& Valeria Rubello
The “government of change”, should focus on the socio-economic issues of national security, public order and control of migratory flows, together with social welfare, pensions and tax reforms...
Read MoreSocial Risk Case Study: Coca-Cola
Barie Carmichael
Corporate communications expert Barie Carmichael takes a closer look a companies managing their social risks and shares a case study on Coca-Cola via the Washington Post...
Read MoreHow to Navigate “Italy First”
Pietro Battistella
Italy sent shivers down Europe’ spine as anti-establishment Five Stars and hard right Lega formed a government almost two weeks ago. Companies, organisations and governments dealing with Italy will need to navigate a transformed and multi-layered landscape...
Read MoreMacron: A New Hope for Europe?
Mathilde Bouvier
Emmanuel Macron was elected as the new French President on 7 May, and sworn into office on Sunday. Now is a good time to examine what the Brussels bubble is expecting of Mr. Macron...
Read MoreMacron’s First Year, as Seen From Brussels
Nicholas Whyte
Looking for the impact in the wider EU of President Macron’s first year in office, a hostile observer might well ask, “Where’s the beef?”..
Read MoreThree Things to Know about European Carbon Market Reforms
Director Julie Kjestrup shares three key highlights on the European Union's recent carbon emissions vote...
Read MoreParis Post Trump
Lana Osher
& James Robinson
In Brussels, the EU capital that Trump once referred to as a hellhole, the president’s decision to ditch the Paris climate agreement is met with outcry, but also with determination...
Read MoreMatteo Martone
& Valeria Rubello
Italy has been without a government since elections on 4 March ended in a hung parliament. After more than 80 days, attempts to form a political government have failed...
Read MoreGlobal Projection of Soft Power
Joe Phelan
As the UK prepares for its future outside of the European Union, the importance of soft power increases greatly...
Read MoreHelping Brands Take a (Meaningful) Stand
Lauren Pellek
Given the fraught political and social times we’re living in today, brands are stepping up to take a stand on issues seemingly more than ever. This is primarily due to consumers becoming more informed, louder and organized to put pressure on brands – all through the ubiquity of engagement on social media platforms...
Read MoreDisrupting the Grassroots and Advocacy Industry
Dan Meyers
APCO Partners with Crowdskout and the Grassroots Professional Network on New e-Book, “The Intersection of Innovation and Advocacy” ..
Read MoreWhat to Look for at the 19th Chinese NPC
On October 18, 2017, the 19th NCCPC will be held in Beijing, presided over by President Xi Jinping who is expected to continue for a second five-year term as general secretary...
Read MoreThe Austrian Election Result
Robert W. Kopitsch
There were three winners and two losers who emerged from Austria’s election yesterday. The only party that achieved the same result as in the last election are the liberal NEOS. On Thursday, 19 October it will finally be announced which four, five or six parties will ultimately end up in Austria’s next parliament. ..
Read MoreA Digital Look at French Elections
This year’s final round of the presidential election on May 7th will force voters to choose between two non-traditional political parties. Cody LeBlanc takes a look at the conversations surrounding it...
Read MoreThe 2017 German Federal Elections
Isabel Kassabian
The German elections are approaching on September 24. While we expect Chancellor Angela Merkel to remain in office, we are experiencing a very exciting time nonetheless...
Read MoreCommunicating in an Era of Great Change
Seiko Indo
At this time of change, proponents of "future investment" must balance diverse stakeholder interests, negotiate generational disparity and navigate an evolving media environment. This is a prime moment for Japan’s PR industry to redefine its role as arbiter and communicator...
Read MoreThe story of Pride today has changed. Instead of the desperate “Why don’t you do something?” the question of Pride 2018 has become: “What are you doing?.”..
Read MoreHow to Prepare for the 116th Congress
If your plans to shape the agenda on Capitol Hill and get results have focused on Republican lawmakers and stakeholders, odds are they will be horribly out of date in six months...
Read MoreIf President-elect Trump Calls (or Tweets)
Jim Moorhead
If President-elect Donald J. Trump calls – or tweets – are you ready? ..
Read MoreShowdown in Beijing
Potential U.S. team for talks with China reflects a lack of coherent strategy, while China is cautious and anticipates a long process...
Read MoreHealth Care Consumerism is Only in its Infancy
Stig Albinus
Health care consumerism is an important and rising trend in health care. Yet, a new study in Health Affairs has thrown a dose of harsh reality into the expectation that we are on the verge of shifting to a consumer-driven marketplace in health care...
Read MoreDigital Trends Seen at Seattle's Digital Summit
The future of digital in Seattle is rooted in the optimization of SEO, the implementation of niche influencer programs and the individualization of content...
Read MoreWhen Public Perception Overshadows Reality
Lauren Compton
Earlier this summer, CNBC released their annual report, America's Top States for Business, which serves as a scorecard on state economic climates. For the second year in a row, North Carolina ranks highly, falling fifth out of all 50 U.S. states. But does reality in North Carolina match perceptions of the state?..
Read MoreReflections From a Summer Intern
Tina Kaiser
Martina Perez, a 16-year-old rising junior in high school, shares her experience as a summer intern in APCO's New York office...
Read MoreThree Types of Chinese Investments in Europe
Ryan Morgan
& Pietro Battistella
What do a number of Italian football clubs, Greek ports, German enterprises, and prime UK real estate have in common? They were all the targets of Chinese investment in the last few years...
Read MoreAdapting to the Age of Fake News
In a media environment where both public and private organizations are repeatedly placed under scrutiny by an increasingly values-driven public, communicators are struggling to address the complex issues that impact trust and reputation...
Read MoreWe Are Far From Done
Margery Kraus
As we celebrate Women’s Equality Day in 2017, commemorating the historic date that American women won the right to vote in 1920, we should momentarily pause and reflect on how far we have come in less than a century. ..
Read MoreNew Year, New Surprises
Kelly Stepno
APCO's Worldwide’s Crisis Management and Litigation Communication team gears up for 2017...
Read MoreTurkish Elections 2018: Outcomes
Deniz Gungen
The Turkish electorate made a strong showing Sunday, with some suggesting approximately 90% of the electorate cast ballots for the simultaneous Presidential and Parliamentary elections. ..
Read MoreGet off the Plane
Tomorrow, I leave for Kazakhstan. As I get ready to make the long, hard slog back to Astana, there is one thing that keeps me going more than any other: the idea that right now in these increasingly complicated times, events like Expo 2017 are more important than ever...
Read MoreTrade Tensions Could Hurt the Auto Industry
James Robinson
The escalating trade tensions between the United States and China could have serious consequences for auto manufacturers, suppliers, and consumers in both markets...
Read MoreChina Shortens Negative List
Freda Zhang
China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) released a shortened “negative list” for foreign investment. The updated list significantly reduces the number of sectors in which foreign investment is restricted, cutting down last year’s draft list from 63 to 48 sectors...
Read MoreUS Health Care Repeal and Replace - Questions
William Pierce
With the defeat of the ACA repeal and replace bill done in rather dramatic, but predictable fashion, three questions are raised: What Did We learn? What Do We Know? Now What?..
Read MoreEU Plans for AI and the Health Care
Mathilde Bouvier
& Christoph Mielke
On 10 April, the European Commission organized the 2018 Digital Day, during which 25 European government representatives signed up to a Declaration on Artificial Intelligence (AI), committing to collaborating and taking the necessary policy measures to take full advantage of this technology...
Read MoreBurden of Budgets, Deterioration of Morale
Richard James
Our Doctors and Nurses are Tired: What does that Mean for the State of Health Care?..
Read MoreBring Physicians Back to the Forefront of Health Care
Stig Albinus
Marginalizing the medical profession could undermine the quality of patient care...
Read MoreBuy American, Hire American in the Private Sector
Bill Dalbec
Our research shows that 56 percent of Americans believe U.S. companies that do business overseas should follow a “Buy American, Hire American” philosophy in their own businesses. ..
Read MoreTrade War Stalemate: China’s Options
Indicators are starting to emerge of a potential change of strategy from Beijing that is moving away from open confrontation to contingency planning. ..
Read MoreThe Art of the 'New Deal?'
Timothy England
In light of the ‘Dieselgate’ scandal, concerns over the dual quality of products in some member states and the growth of e-commerce, as part of its consumer law overhaul, today the European Commission presented its ‘New Deal for Consumers’ package. ..
Read MoreWorking with Germany's New Government
For businesses and advocacy groups the challenge of this government composition will be to deal with its specific simultaneity of change and continuity. ..
Read MoreWhen Sorry Isn't Enough
Katie Sprehe
The U.S. public is feeling empowered to use social media to document or talk about a company’s wrong doing, an APCO Insight survey conducted last year found. Here are three guidelines for how to prevent a reputation backlash.
..
Read MoreThe Impact of Hancock to Health
As UK Prime Minister Theresa May was battling with changes in her Government late into the evening of Monday 9 July, after both her Foreign Secretary and her Brexit Secretary resigned in protest over her ’soft’ Brexit plans, it was confirmed that Matt Hancock would step into Jeremy Hunt’s shoes as the new Secretary of State for Health...
Read MoreNew Research on the Role of Social Media
Katie Sprehe
A new survey from APCO Insight reveals some interesting trends on the U.S. public’s perceptions of the power of social media...
Read MoreTake A Look In The Mirror
Margery Kraus
International Women’s Day is certainly a time of reflection for many and I am no exception...
Read MoreThe New American Company
Bill Dalbec
To say that globalization is making the world smaller is a trite understatement. The fact is, globalization is blurring the lines between what’s “domestic” and what’s “foreign.”..
Read MoreThe Ground War – What it Takes to Become No. 45
The final days of Presidential campaigns are not glamourous. They are hard work. There is little sleep. Everybody is stressed. Campaign staffers have planned for months, if not years for this moment. The “ground game” always matters, but when candidates are polling within three to five points of one another, the campaign with the better field operation usually wins...
Read MoreA Look Back at Pride
Brad Staples
Now we are at the end of June, we should take a moment and appreciate the importance this month has for so many people around the world. ..
Read MoreFailure to Launch
Jolyon Kimble
A defenestration of Big Tech companies in the UK is about as likely as a new spaceport...
Read MoreThe Deciding Votes from Ulster
Nicholas Whyte
The election in Northern Ireland was as dramatic as elsewhere in the UK, with five of the 18 seats changing hands and Sinn Féin and the DUP taking 17 of them (and the sole other survivor, Independent MP Lady Sylvia Hermon, fighting off the DUP by only a slim margin)...
Read MoreA House Divided Against Itself
Theo Moore
A bad result for the Tories and a remarkably good one for Labour means the UK seems set for a minority government. As a consequence Brexit negotiations are going to be even more complicated than expected. ..
Read MoreSix Steps to Rebuilding Reputation
Katie Sprehe
Every corporation will face a reputation crisis at some point in time. Some become defined by their crisis, others come back. The question becomes: how do companies not only regain their pre-crisis reputation equity, but how do they built it up to withstand the next crisis?..
Read MoreThe Irish Side of the British Election
When Theresa May unexpectedly called a general election on 18 April, the end of the story looked clear – a massive Conservative lead in opinion polls was likely to translate into a massive parliamentary majority, which she could then use for good or ill...
Read MoreEnvironmental Stewardship Matters
Katie Sprehe
President Trump’s decision yesterday to withdraw from the Paris climate agreement is reportedly at odds with many across the business community. Business leaders representing a diverse set of companies have come out against this decision to pull out of the agreement...
Read MoreThe Four Principles of Champion Brands: China
James McGregor
Since 1999, the year China’s "Going Out" strategy was first announced, China has dreamed of creating global brands. ..
Read MoreRecap of the North-Rhine Westphalia Election
Johannes Sibbor
In Germany’s most populous state, German Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservatives defeated the ruling Social Democrats (SPD) in a key state election, further boosting her hopes of retaining power in September's national vote...
Read MoreAHCA Passed the House: Now What?
William Pierce
First, hats off to House Leadership for sticking with it and not giving up on their pledge to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA)...
Read MoreTurkey General Elections 2015
Deniz Gungen
Turkey’s 24th general elections resulted in the election of 550 members to the Turkish Grand National Assembly on June 7, 2015. ..
Read MoreAnalysis of China’s Two Sessions
James McGregor
The recently completed annual “Two Sessions” of China’s legislature and advisory bodies contained two notable highlights...
Read MoreRenzi wins the Democratic Party’s Primary
Matteo Martone
The former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi has won the primary elections of the Democratic Party with 70% of votes, overcoming the other two competitors, the Minister of Justice, Andrea Orlando, (around 20%) and the President of the Puglia Region, Michele Emiliano (around 10%). ..
Read MoreA Tale of Two Cities, Two Countries and Two Elections
Will Browne
“Fog in the channel; the continent cut off.” This is an apocryphal British headline, trotted out so often that it has become almost hackneyed in its usage to illustrate the difference (and implied pre-eminence) of the UK from the rest of Europe...
Read MoreAPCO Forum Presents: U.S.-Turkey Discussion
On Thursday, November 12, APCO Worldwide hosted General James L. Jones, former National Security Advisor, current chairman of the American-Turkish Council and president of Jones Group International, for an APCO Forum Presents executive breakfast discussion on the U.S.-Turkey discussion. ..
Read More100 Days Recap: Health Care Reform
William Pierce
Why is it so hard to pass a repeal and replace plan now that they have control of the White House and both chambers of Congress? Particularly when the President seems unconcerned about what they pass, just that they pass something so he can check it off on his list of accomplishments. The answer is both simple and complicated...
Read More100 Days Recap: A Global Perspective
Nicholas Whyte
The Trump administration has ushered in an era of decreased predictability and increased risk. Uncertainty may sometimes be the right approach when dealing with enemies, but it can be a serious danger for allies and companies that need to understand their environment to be able to make investments in security and the economy...
Read More100 Days Recap: Deals and Finance
Jeff Zelkowitz
Deal-making has gotten tougher and more politicized. This is a global phenomenon with implications for companies everywhere. We are definitely in a new world, where nationalist and populist pressures combine with political and regulatory activism to challenge multinationals...
Read MoreImpact of Brexit on the Tech Industry
APCO Forum
Tech companies globally are concerned about Brexit, as the UK was seen as a champion of digital innovation and regulatory light-touch empowering the growth of Tech Titans and startups...
Read MoreLooking Ahead to the UN’s 2030 SDGs
James Robinson
The transition from the United Nations’ Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to the new 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—to be ratified at the UN General Assembly in September—is a significant milestone in the global development agenda. ..
Read MoreFDI in an "America First" Administration
Jeff Zelkowitz
In this white paper, APCO Worldwide provides its global public affairs insight and offers specific recommendations for Chinese entities who seek to expand in the United States...
Read MoreIn Memoriam: Alicia Peterson Clark
Margery Kraus
Today we honor and remember a wonderful colleague, Alicia Peterson Clark, who sadly passed away on April 12, 2017. ..
Read MoreBrazil’s Recovery Faces Crucial Challenges
Pietro Battistella
Brazil is increasingly attracting the scrutiny of investors worldwide as the country enters a key phase for its economy...
Read MoreMajor Trends Influencing Health Communications
APCO Forum
Health care in the United States is a $2.8 trillion, rapidly-changing and increasingly complex industry. ..
Read MoreThe Contradiction that is President Trump
Bill Dalbec
Raise your hand if you can recall a president who had a majority of Americans dislike him personally and disapprove of his job handling yet a majority approve of his policy positions...
Read MoreRemembering Al Golin
Margery Kraus
As someone who has built her own firm, I also respected Al’s pioneering nature and understood the grit it took to accomplish what he did...
Read MoreRecruiting and Retaining Top Women in STEM
Devyn McDonald
& Kaleb Pittman
In 2017, the talents of women remain deeply underrepresented in STEM fields around the United States. ..
Read MoreDeal-Making in an “America First” Administration
Jeff Zelkowitz
President Trump’s “America first” policy and rhetoric over China has broad popular appeal, but a trade war could spill over into attitudes towards foreign direct investment (FDI) in the United States...
Read MoreInsights for the Fight Against Childhood Hunger
Lauren Compton
This winter, APCO Insight surveyed low-income U.S. families with children under six years of age to inform hunger-fighting strategies among this population. ..
Read MoreTwo Sessions: Made in China 2025
Ryan Morgan
“Made in China 2025” is an ambitious industrial master plan released in 2014 with the explicit goal of turning China into a manufacturing superpower and challenging the market dominance of advanced economies, while at the same time holding off rising competition from other developing countries. ..
Read MoreTwo Sessions: Online Consumption
As China transitions from an economic model driven by investment and manufacturing to one that is more services oriented, the consumer economy is slated to stand in for the slack left by heavy industry...
Read MoreManaging Reputation Through the Windshield
Barie Carmichael
Contrary to conventional wisdom on crises being generated from external factors, only 20 percent or fewer of crises start from people or forces outside the organization...
Read MoreA Bright Future for British Tech
Will Browne
Tech Nation 2017 is a thorough and in-depth report that presents the case for the past and hopefully future success of the digital economy. ..
Read MoreThe Threat to Danish-American Pharma Trade
Stig Albinus
Danish pharmaceutical executives read President Donald Trump's tweets with great trepidation. And there is a very good reason for that...
Read MoreThree Things to Know About the ACA Replacement
William Pierce
Bill Pierce, a senior director for APCO’s Health Care Practice from our Washington office, shares three things to know about the legislative process for the ACA replacement bill...
Read MoreCelebrity Activists Lend Lower Credibility to Companies
Katie Sprehe
Is a marriage of ideals with a celebrity activist a smart partnership? ..
Read MorePrivatizing Air Traffic Control
Craig L. Fuller
Craig Fuller, co-chair of APCO's International Advisory Committee, shares his thoughts on the importance of the FAA's air technology modernization efforts. ..
Read MoreJames McGregor
This year China’s legislature ratified the 13th Five Year Plan (2016-2020), the country’s highest-level policy planning document and the first developed under President Xi Jinping. In these videos, James McGregor, chairman of APCO Worldwide in Greater China, and Lilian Rogers, associate consultant at APCO’s Beijing office, discuss what to watch for in China over the next five years and whether the 13th FYP encapsulates lofty dreams or realistic reforms for the country’s future. ..
Read MoreUnderstanding China's Technology Ambitions
Bruce Fu
For nearly a decade, APCO's Beijing Director Bruce Fu has been following these trends and advising multinational companies on how to interpret these regulations and keep their business relevant. In these videos, Bruce walks us through the motivations behind China’s technology ambitions, the role that innovation plays, and how technology MNCs should react...
Read MoreChina's 13th Five-Year Plan
James McGregor
APCO's team in China prepared a special report on China's 13th five-year plan, with analysis of Xi Jinping's priorities for the plan, how the government plans to keep growth on track, and how to revitalize the nation. The report also discusses contradictions of the plan and how it impacts business. A downloadable version is available after the jump...
Read MoreChina's Foreign NGO Management Law
APCO Forum
On April 28, China’s legislature, the National People’s Congress, passed the Foreign NGO Management Law (Chinese/English), the third draft of a law which had already received widespread criticism for moving foreign NGOs operating in China from the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Civil Affairs to the Ministry of Public Security (MPS), China’s police and security authority. ..
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