90 likes | 204 Vues
This paper by Henri-Bernard Solignac-Lecomte explores the intricate relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), global governance, and sustainable development. It delves into the dual aspects of stakeholder and shareholder accountability, the business case for CSR, and key vehicles such as firms, governments, and standards. The discussion highlights success stories in CSR while addressing challenges in scaling up successful practices. The text also questions the boundaries and expectations of CSR within the context of global governance, particularly in developing nations.
E N D
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), global governance and sustainable development:what is at stake? Henri-Bernard Solignac Lecomte OECD Development Centre EU-LDC Network Conference ‘Global Governance for Sustainable Development: Issues and Instruments’ Chiang Mai, December 8-10, 2002
Outline 1. The CSR concept: shareholders & stakeholders 2. CSR and development: what are the links? 3. Vehicles for CSR: firms, governments, standards 4. Issues for debate
The CSR Concept • Shareholder accountability • Stakeholder accountability • From opposition ... • … to a win-win situation? • by compliance • by choice • by moral obligation?
CSR and Development (1) The development case • (+) the current of business on society is sub-optimal • (-) the scope for ‘bad’ corporate governance is greater than in developed countries
CSR and Development (2) The business case(s) • Human resource retention, brand recognition, reputation insurance • Cost-saving and better market access • Mitigation of negative impacts • Social license to operate
Vehicles for CSR (1) Firms • Normal operations • Social welfare and risk management • Re-alignment of core business competencies with development priorities (partnerships) There is evidence of success, but how do we scale it up?
Vehicles for CSR (2)Governments • Minimum standards • Facilitate business going beyond compliance • Philippines CSR Week • Taiwan Green Business Award • Thailand Office on Labour Standards Development • Challenges
Vehicles for CSR (3)Standards • Reporting (end-of-pipeline, NGOs) • Certification standards (financial sector) • ‘Aspirational’ / non-binding principles (IGOs) • UN Global Compact • OECD Guidelines on Multinational Enterprises
CSR as an instrument for global governance? • How far is long term? • Who defines society’s expectations? • Is there a risk of a bias towards public opinion in the North? • Can shareholders afford CSR in bad times? • PR pressure or strategic shift? • How far into public governance? • What role for the EU? (Cotonou, …)