CSR is a win- win opportunity for companies, financial investors and society at large

Social Responsibility: Definition and Debate

Social Responsibility


The idea that business has social obligations above and beyond making a profit. Business has an obligation to constituent groups in society other than stockholders and beyond that prescribed by law.

Purpose of CSR


    

To engage with the internal and external stakeholders Treating the stakeholders ethically To create high standards of living To protect society and environment To take care of shareholders Philanthropic contributions to society

Factors Leading to CSR - Drivers

 

 

Globalization and competition Increased size and influence of companies Repositioning of governments and its roles War for talent Growth of global civil society activism

Generations of CSR
Social Betterment responsiveness
First GenerationCompanies can be responsible in ways that do not detract from commercial success.

Social

Second GenerationFocusing on CSR as an integral part of long term business strategy.

Third GenerationSignificant contribution to address issues such as poverty, environmental degradation.

A Continuum of Social Responsibility Strategies

Social Responsibility Strategies



Reactive Strategy


Denying responsibility while striving to maintain the status quo by resisting change. Resisting additional social responsibilities with legal and public relations tactics.

Defensive Strategy


Social Responsibility Strategies

(contd)


Accommodation Strategy


Assuming social responsibility only in response to pressure from interest groups or the government. Taking the initiative in formulating and putting in place new programs that serve as role models for industry.

Proactive Strategy


Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Arguments For



Balancing corporate power with corporate responsibilities Protects business self-interest

Limits future government intervention Addresses issues by using business resources and expertise Addresses issues by being proactive

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Arguments Against



Business is not equipped to handle social activities Dilutes the primary aim of business Organization may get power over society

Increase business power

Lack of expertise to handle social issues

How do we do it?
Key CSR Steps  Commitment and Vision  Planning  Implementation  Monitoring  Reporting  Continuous Improvement

Limitations of Approaches to CSR

   

Lack of clarity of the definition of CSR Models of CSR not adopted properly by companies Lack of measures to innovate and evolve new CSR models Unidentified segment- need to identify
the areas of interest & capability to take up CSR in a focused manner.

Organisations


 

IISD (International Institute of Sustainable Development) BSR (Business for Social Responsibility) WEF (World Economic Forum) BSD (Business for Social Responsibility) WBCSD (World Business Council for Sustainable Development