Associate ProfessorMartijn Boersma

Martijn's research interests are rooted in three areas that have shaped his scholarly contributions and expertise: modern slavery and labour exploitation, corporate governance and the governance of supply chains, and corporate social and environmental responsibility, accountability, and legitimacy. His experience as a researcher for the Australian trade union movement provided invaluable insights into the intricate dynamics of labour exploitation within commercial enterprises. Over the years, Martijn has delved into various facets of this issue, including the factors exacerbating the risk of exploitation and the efficacy of businesses' efforts to combat labor abuses.

He is also interested in the nexus between corporate governance and sustainability, emphasising how businesses' governance practices intersect with crucial non-financial concerns such as labour standards, income inequality, and climate change. By exploring the evolving role of companies in addressing stakeholder concerns alongside shareholder interests, his work underscores the imperative for businesses to wield their influence for positive social and environmental change. Notably, Martijn's research scrutinises global and local supply chains, illuminating the systemic linkages between modes of production and various social and environmental transgressions.

Through his research, Martijn has gained intimate knowledge of businesses' environmental and social responsibilities, coupled with a nuanced understanding of mechanisms for holding them accountable. He has examined the diverse strategies businesses employ in response to stakeholder pressures, advocating for a holistic approach that integrates stakeholder concerns into corporate decision-making processes. Martijn's research agenda is driven by a commitment to shed light on pressing societal issues within the realm of corporate behaviour and governance, aiming to inform both theory and practice for a more sustainable and equitable future.