Nefco Introduces Comprehensive Equality Policy Covering All Funds and Programmes

Nefco Introduces Comprehensive Equality Policy Covering All Funds and Programmes

(IN BRIEF) Nefco has introduced a new Equality Policy that replaces its former Gender Policy and broadens the organisation’s approach to equality across all investments and programmes. The policy establishes clear standards and a structured framework for assessing and mitigating equality risks, aligned with the principle of doing no significant harm. Companies supported by Nefco are required to demonstrate equality measures and address identified gaps through Environmental and Social Action Plans. According to Environment & Sustainability Manager Joakim Adolfsson, the policy reinforces Nefco’s longstanding commitment to equality while supporting its core environmental mandate.

(PRESS RELEASE) HELSINKI, 2-Jan-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Nefco has formally adopted a new Equality Policy that establishes a comprehensive framework for identifying, assessing, and mitigating equality-related risks across its investments, funds, and managed programmes. The policy replaces Nefco’s previous Gender Policy introduced in 2018 and reflects a broader, more inclusive approach to equality considerations.

With the updated policy, Nefco expands its focus beyond gender to encompass wider equality dimensions, ensuring that all activities supported by the organisation meet clearly defined equality standards. The Equality Policy reinforces Nefco’s commitment to the principle of “do no significant harm” with regard to equality and integrates this principle into decision-making processes throughout the investment lifecycle.

A central element of the policy is a structured risk assessment and mitigation methodology. Under the new framework, companies and partners are required to demonstrate how equality is addressed within their operations and projects. Where gaps or risks are identified, these must be mitigated through targeted measures outlined in Environmental and Social Action Plans, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement.

Joakim Adolfsson, Joakim Adolfsson, Environment & Sustainability Manager at Nefco, emphasized that equality has long been a core value for the organisation. He noted that the new policy strengthens Nefco’s ability to assess and manage risks consistently across all activities, while reaffirming that environmentally sustainable solutions must also uphold and protect equality.

Read the Equality Policy

View Nefco’s legal framework

For more information, please contact:

Joakim Adolfsson, Environment & Sustainability Manager, Nefco
+358 10 6180 630, joakim.adolfsson@nefco.int

Anni Rein, Senior Communications Manager, Nefco
+358 10 6180 852, anni.rein@nefco.int

SOURCE: Nefco