Promoting decent jobs is of key importance to DEG, as poverty can only be reduced and economic participation promoted if people have access to secure and productive work. DEG’s financing and investments contribute to enabling qualified employment in line with SDG 8 (decent work). This is particularly important in countries with high rates of employment in the informal sector or with limited social protections.
Besides the number of jobs, good working conditions are essential. DEG requires its customers to comply with the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) core labour standards (including freedom of association, prohibition of child and forced labour, and prohibition of discrimination) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standards and to implement effective HR and occupational health and safety management systems. Improved working conditions also result in economic benefits. They boost motivation and productivity and reduce employee turnover and absences.
Employees by region
In 2025, DEG’s portfolio companies employed 3 million people, of whom over 860,000 were women.
84% of DEG’s direct customers offer decent, fair employment. In addition to meeting international labour standards, 29% offer particularly good working conditions in the areas of remuneration and innovative working time models, or can demonstrate relevant certifications in these areas.
52% of direct customers promote non-discriminatory workplaces and employ more women or have more female managers than the industry average; 76% of fund managers actively work to promote diversity in the workforce.
Alongside their effect on direct employment, the companies financed by DEG have an additional impact on indirect employment in their region. For example, suppliers and service providers that benefit from the expansion of other companies create new jobs
The activities of all of DEG’s customers provide jobs for approximately 66 million indirectly employed people.
IT leasing from Germany for Mexican companies
Name: CHG-MERIDIAN México
Invested volume (in EUR): 20 million
Country: Mexico
DERa category: Decent jobs
CHG-MERIDIAN México, a technology leasing company, is helping companies to secure and future-proof their technological equipment, thereby enhancing their local competitiveness. To achieve this, CHG offers sustainable lease models with full carbon offsets. The company actively contributes to the circular economy by refurbishing, remarketing and recycling used IT equipment.
DEG has been working with CHG since 2016. The company is part of the German CHG Group, based in Weingarten (Upper Swabia) with international operations. The current financing helps the company to continue its growth course in several countries in Latin America and Asia. CHG offers its around 1,600 employees worldwide well-paid, skilled jobs and long-term training programmes. In addition, it ensures adherence to the core labour standards of the International Labour Organization (ILO).
The investment contributes to SDGs 8 and 9.
