The Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) is facing mounting scrutiny over its strategic direction, leadership, and overall relevance amid political backlash against ESG and a visible loss of members. Once a rapidly growing standard setter with over 5,000 signatories, PRI is now dealing with governance disputes, a leadership vacuum, damaged internal morale, and a 6.2 million dollar lawsuit from its former US head.

Major early supporters such as British Columbia Investment Management Corporation and NEST have withdrawn, arguing that membership is costly and the practical value unclear, fuelling concerns that rapid expansion has diluted the initiative’s purpose. Commentators warn that without clearer impact, stronger governance, and more convincing leadership, the world’s largest responsible investment coalition risks drifting into irrelevance.