scholarly journals Stakeholder interactions and corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices

2018 ◽  
Vol 32 (1) ◽  
pp. 26-54 ◽  
Author(s):  
Obby Phiri ◽  
Elisavet Mantzari ◽  
Pauline Gleadle

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to critically explore the interactions of key stakeholders and their impact upon corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices in the Zambian copper mining sector. In particular, the authors examine the power dynamics that emerge in the stakeholder interactions. Design/methodology/approach The authors analyse the stakeholder interactions based on the varying degrees of stakeholder salience and critical collaboration potential, and draw on rich evidence from 43 interviews with multiple stakeholders involved in CSR in the Zambia mining sector. Findings This paper finds stark power asymmetries in the relationship between the state, the civil society and mining companies which are exacerbated by a number of factors, including divisions within these key stakeholders themselves. Apart from power imbalances within and between stakeholders, the potential for critical collaboration at the local level is further challenged by the lack of commonly accepted social and environmental frameworks, transparency and accountability of the leadership of stakeholder groups. However, despite these power asymmetries some limited agency is possible, as civil society in particular co-opts previously dormant stakeholders to increase its own salience and, more importantly, that of the state. Originality/value This paper contributes to the literature on the key stakeholders’ interactions shaping CSR in developing countries by exploring these issues in a critical industry, the Zambian copper mining sector, on which the state economy is so heavily dependent.

Author(s):  
Alla Zlenko ◽  
Оlena Isaikina

Relevance of the research topic. In the conditions of systemic restructuring of the economy of Ukraine in the direction of its adaptation to world standards, one of the integral components of the successful functioning of modern business is the development of a strategy of corporate social responsibility. Today, sustainable economic development is not determined by the factor of availability of raw materials or markets, but the opportunity for companies to join the market of highly skilled labor, scientific inventions and the latest technologies. The problems of employment, social instability, and deteriorating environment are becoming more acute and urgent in the world. All this necessitates the formation of an innovative model of development and principles of corporate social responsibility, which is becoming one of the most important areas of a market economy. Formulation of the problem. It is theoretically proven and confirmed by the practice of the world's leading companies that social responsibility can and should be considered as an important social resource of the organization, able to form concrete benefits, ensure sustainable development, adequately respond to social challenges (both internal and external), turning the latter into opportunities. It should be emphasized that social responsibility appears as an important social resource, regardless of the concept of social responsibility the company adheres to. Analysis of recent research and publications. Theoretical and methodological aspects of the formation and development of social responsibility of business are embedded in the studies of the following leading foreign scientists: A. Berle, G. Bowen, M. Velazquez, A. Carroll, F. Kotler, G. Minz, J. Rawls, K. Smith, M Friedman et al. Of particular interest in studying this problem are the works of modern domestic scientists: O. Danylenko, V. Yevtushenko, A. Kolota, N. Kyryliuk, M. Kuzhelev, V. Mamontova, O. Sheremeta and others. Selection of unexplored parts of the general problem. The issue of the effectiveness of the functioning of corporate social responsibility in Ukrainian business practice and the formation of the domestic model of CSR remains insufficiently studied in the domestic scientific environment. Problem statement, purpose of research. The key direction of the world community today is the development of human capital as the basis of the general welfare of the state. One of the conditions for the implementation of the concept of human development and human capital is the introduction and compliance with the basics of corporate social responsibility of business (CSR). The purpose of the work is a comprehensive analysis of the development of CSR in Ukraine. Research methodology. During the writing of the article the methods of analysis and synthesis, system approach, statistical analysis, generalization and structuring were used. Presentation of the main research material. The institution of socially responsible business is typical of most countries with economies based on market values, long-standing democratic traditions, and a developed civil society. In modern conditions in different countries, the participation of business in solving social problems is either strictly regulated under current commercial, tax, labor, environmental legislation or carried out independently under the influence of specially established incentives and benefits. In Ukraine, this process is in the initial stages of its development and takes place in a dominant position of the state, extremely weak development of civil society institutions and oligarchic business development. Field of application of results. The results of the study can be applied in the process of forming a strategy of corporate social responsibility of a modern enterprise. Conclusions in accordance with the article. Corporate social responsibility in the developed world has long been part of society. Today, domestic business leaders are joining the global movement for socially responsible business. In order for funds allocated for social initiatives to bring sustainable results and work on the image of the business, companies must move to building these activities on a systemic basis in accordance with the strategy. It is here that broad prospects open up for the joint efforts of companies, civil society organizations, the media and the state. The immediate business benefits of CSR are the creation of a stable business environment, reduced operational risks, increased financial performance and sales, increased productivity, reduced recruitment costs, market expansion and, consequently, increased market value in the future. The interaction of political, social and economic actors, based on the principles of social partnership, allows to ensure the stable progressive development of the state. With the increasing importance of non-financial factors of sustainable development (social stability, environmental security, etc.), the practical and theoretical aspects of social responsibility are updated.


Significance The act, aimed at improving government efficiency by closing or merging departments and state entities, is one of the priorities President Rodrigo Duterte set in his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) to congress on July 24, in which he also set out a critical position towards the country’s mining sector. Impacts Police and military capacity spending will rise, but aid, chiefly from Beijing and Washington, is needed. The government’s pro-environment, pro-corporate social responsibility agenda could extend to non-mining economic firms. The administration will need foreign governments’ help to crack down on international drug supply chains. Streamlining government will see controversy and debate over what gets shut or merged.


2018 ◽  
Vol 31 (2) ◽  
pp. 725-744 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammad Badrul Muttakin ◽  
Dessalegn Getie Mihret ◽  
Arifur Khan

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the association of corporate political connection with the level of voluntary corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosures to determine how the relationships between the state and the corporate sector influence CSR engagement. Design/methodology/approach Based on a neo-pluralist view of legitimacy theory, which conceptualizes the state as a concentration of power amenable to exploitation by the corporate sector, the study develops and empirically tests a hypothesis that CSR disclosures are inversely associated with political connection. A sample of 936 firm-year observations is used with data collected from annual reports of companies listed on the Dhaka Stock Exchange in Bangladesh from 2005 to 2013. Findings Results indicate that corporate political connection is associated with reduced CSR disclosures. This finding suggests that the perceived need for CSR disclosures as a legitimation strategy diminishes for politically connected firms. The finding supports a neo-pluralist argument that political connection could enable firms to eschew stakeholder pressure associated with potential legitimacy threats originating from poor CSR performance. This conclusion challenges the pluralist view of legitimacy theory that considers the state as a neutral arbiter resolving conflict among stakeholder groups in society. Originality/value The study makes a significant contribution to the literature by developing a neo-pluralist theorization of voluntary CSR disclosures within legitimacy theory and empirically testing it. Because prior empirical CSR disclosure research is largely underpinned by the pluralistic conception of society, examining this phenomenon from a neo-pluralist perspective enables a more complete understanding of CSR disclosure behaviors of firms.


Author(s):  
Som Sekhar Bhattacharyya ◽  
Surabhi Verma

PurposeBusiness firms operate in society not only for market gains but also for generating positive social externalities. Civil society organisations (CSO) have helped society to develop across various spheres of influence. The concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) ushered in an era wherein both business economic objectives as well as socio-environmental responsibilities of firms were prioritized simultaneously. The path of firms and CSOs intersected through CSR. In this work, the authors develop a typology on firm–CSO collaboration regarding CSR initiatives.Design/methodology/approachThe authors through a twin approach of systematic literature review (SLR) with qualitative study developed a categorization of collaborations between a firm and a CSO in the context of CSR engagements. Apart from the SLR, the authors undertook two focus group discussions (FGD) with CSR experts (engaged in firm–CSO collaboration). This was done with a semi-structured discussion agenda frame. The data were content analysed for thematic aspects. Thus, both SLR as well as FGD outputs were considered for the study results.FindingsThe authors found six elements in firm–CSO collaboration and seven archetypes of collaboration. The six elements were CSR action elements (CSRAE) consisting of CSR agenda (CSRA), CSR resources (CSRR), CSR capabilities (CSRC), CSR Pprocess (CSRP), CSR monitoring (CSRM) and CSR stakeholder engagement (CSRSE). The seven typologies were CSO as auditor , outsourcing of CSR , CSO-driven CSR, joint CSR, support to CSO for CSR ,guided support to CSO and coordinated CSR.Research limitations/implicationsDoty and Glick, (1994) had undertaken a seminal work on theory building based upon the unique method of application of typologies. Doty and Glick, (1994) elucidated how application of typologies could through a typology study enhance the scope and level for understanding and modelling in a contextual domain involving theory. This study was a step in this direction in the context of firm–CSO collaboration in the context of CSR initiatives.Practical implicationsThis study would help managers from both CSOs and business firms to comprehend in which sphere they were required to collaborate like in resource /capabilities deployment or in designing CSR agendas or CSR process or CSR monitoring or in stakeholder engagement during CSR management. This typology would enable managers to comprehend what would be the most suitable form of collaboration between a firm and a CSO for a specific CSR engagement.Originality/valueThis is one of the first studies that theorizes regarding firm–CSO collaboration in the context of CSR initiatives both in terms of the collaboration building block elements as well as typology presented.


2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. 418-446
Author(s):  
Anirban Chakraborty ◽  
Ankur Jha

Purpose The purpose of the study is to understand the evolution of the state-of-the-art of corporate social responsibility (CSR) research in the domain of marketing. Design/methodology/approach The top-ranked journals in the domain of marketing have been chosen for the purpose of this study, and the papers related to CSR concept published in those journals between 1930 and 2018 have been reviewed. A lucid framework has been used to structure the reviewing process. Findings The study finds that the CSR concept in marketing context has become more complex, its dimensions have evolved and increased in number, affecting diverse stakeholders leading to different outcomes. Research limitations/implications A simple model is proposed to understand the amalgamation of CSR concept in marketing literature. The study also highlights extant gaps in the literature and suggests the directions for future research. Practical implications The notion of CSR goes beyond the economic and regulatory obligation of the firm. Hence, for it to be duly implemented, practitioners must have a holistic understanding of this multi-faceted construct. This paper examines the changing role of CSR in the context of marketing over a period of almost a century. It thereby helps marketers to understand and visualize their changing responsibility toward the society at large and thereby co-create a sustainable relationship with all the stakeholders. The study provides both tactical and strategic pointers to practitioners. Social implications The study draws upon extant literature and documents the positive impact of CSR on marketing variables and thereby gives a compelling reason to the marketers to be socially responsible. Compilation of persuasive evidence would encourage the adoption of CSR concepts by the marketers. This would elicit a more socially responsible action which will have a positive impact on the society that the marketer serves. Originality/value This is an in-depth study depicting the journey of CSR construct in marketing literature and provides a holistic understanding of the construct in the context of marketing.


2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (2) ◽  
pp. 91-111 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ayokunle Olubunmi Olanipekun ◽  
Olalekan Shamsideen Oshodi ◽  
Amos Darko ◽  
Temitope Omotayo

Purpose The development of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the construction sector is slow, thereby leaving many opportunities for further development. To enable operators in the construction sector to effectively capitalise on the opportunities to promote the development of CSR in the sector, this study employs the practice viewpoint to take the stock of CSR activities in the sector. The purpose of this paper is to reveal the state of CSR practice in the construction sector. The study also draws from the development of CSR in the manufacturing, mining and banking sectors to inform the state of CSR practice in the construction sector. Design/methodology/approach This study carries out a systematic literature review of 56 journal publications that were published between the year 2000 and 2016. The deductive coding of the publications was done to identify four themes of CSR research that constitute the practice view of the state of CSR in the construction sector. Findings The implementation of CSR is the major emphasis in the state of CSR practice in the construction sector. The implementation of CSR is wrapped in the perception of operators about CSR potentials, dimensions of CSR implemented, strategies for implementation and the effects of the implemented CSR practices on performance. The sector characteristics and organisational structure are attributes for comparing the CSR practices between the construction sector and the manufacturing, mining and banking sectors. Originality/value This study provides a researchers’ view of the state of CSR in the construction sector. Additionally, the study draws from the development of CSR in the manufacturing, mining and banking sectors to inform the state of CSR practice in the construction sector.


2016 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
pp. 211-230 ◽  
Author(s):  
Irina Lock ◽  
Peter Seele

Purpose This paper aims to study the state of the art of corporate social responsibility (CSR) governance and operational structure within the most sustainable companies to arrive at a typology of CSR organization. Whether companies consider corporate social responsibility (CSR) a strategic management task is mirrored in the department and governance structure of CSR. Design/methodology/approach By conducting a web content analysis, the authors apply a “best practice” approach to examine the vertical and horizontal organization of CSR within the “most sustainable companies worldwide” (Robeco SAM, 2013). Findings The results show that most corporations have in place governance structures for CSR that organize it horizontally in stand-alone departments. Three types of CSR organization best practice emerged: the single-headed, two-headed and infused types. Practical implications The paper indicates three different ways that companies can organize CSR internally. The authors discuss the feasibility of such organization for large and small companies and their day-to-day business. Originality/value The paper addresses the under-researched area of vertical and horizontal CSR organization at the micro level. The authors analyze the state of the art of organizational and governance structures of CSR in the most sustainable companies and deduce three types of CSR governance and operational architecture.


2017 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Kalani Geone Fungameza Malema

The purpose of this paper is to examine the working conditions in the mining sector in relation to Mchenga and Kaziwiziwi coal mines in Rumphi district in Malawi. The paper reports that the working conditions in the mining sector are generally poor and that the workers’ organizations and their activities in the mining sector are effective tools for the improved working conditions. The paper however, argues that, to a greater extent, it is over expectations compounded by lack of knowledge on part of (amongst the) the employees and/or the community members around the mining workplaces regarding aspects of legal and non-legal liabilities of the workplace employers towards the implementation of labour practices and of corporate social responsibility interventions that complicates the sufferings of most mining sector employees in Malawi. It is thus important to encourage the establishment of workers’ organizations at a workplace and for stakeholders such as Civil Society Organizations to be conclusive in their complementary roles to government when it comes to the implementation of advocacy activities to the communities (employees) around the mining workplaces especially in the event that such activities’ implications have potential effects to cause some forms of conflicts between the mining workplace employers and their employees including the surrounding community members thereby likely to complicate workers’ sufferings as a result of some unresolved consequences.  


2016 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 26-38 ◽  
Author(s):  
Francis Xavier Dery Tuokuu ◽  
Kwesi Amponsah-Tawiah

Purpose Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has gained global prominence in recent years. This is because businesses have seen the need to consider the interests of stakeholders not only to enhance their corporate image but also to live good neighbourly lives with the communities in which they operate. The purpose of this paper is to examine the value of engaging stakeholders and recommend multinational corporations not to take over the governance of countries in which they operate as a result of their financial muscle but to play complementary roles to help in the development of those countries. Although CSR is no longer new in Africa according to recent studies, it is suffering from identity crisis, as it has been used generally and severally to refer to different issues. This conceptual paper discusses the notion of CSR practice in Africa and the major issues and debates around it. It looks at the role of government and civil society organisations that are at the forefront playing watchdog and vigilante roles for the benefit of the society. Design/methodology/approach This is a conceptual paper. Findings The paper argues that business and society cannot exist without working together and that responsible business is key to sustainable development. It traces the roots of CSR and the emergence of the concept. It advises that what is required in Africa is for the media and civil society organizations to play watchdog and vigilante roles in ensuring that businesses are socially responsible, accountable and transparent. If governments and businesses are transparent and accountable, then the citizens become the greatest beneficiary. The profit margins of businesses will also increase and there will be sustainable development. The paper also indicates that the concept of CSR is gaining grounds in Africa and is no longer new as indicated by previous studies. It recommends that Africa should have its own CSR programmes designed to fit into the African setting. The paper examines the major issues and debates on CSR and concludes that any attempt to introduce uniform laws to ensure responsible business operations universally will not work as situations differ from country to country. The overreliance on corporate entities, particularly Multinational corporations (MNCs) and transnational corporation (TNCs), for the direct development of African economies is not sustainable, as these corporate entities cannot continue to fulfil these obligations meant for the development of infrastructure and still be expected to provide basic amenities for communities under the guise of fulfilling CSR. This process of national development is unsustainable. Originality/value The paper recommends a multi-stakeholder approach in designing and implementing CSR programmes. The government, civil society, community and the company should collaborate and constantly have stakeholder engagements as that are the only way of attaining a win-win benefit. MNCs and TNCs should see the government and other stakeholders as partners in development and not lord it over them as a result of their financial muscle. It is recommended that more research work be done in CSR education in Africa. This is to enable business operators and communities understand the true meaning of CSR and to know that the concept goes beyond philanthropy or donations. It will also help them understand that the concept goes beyond community relations to include issues such as human rights, child labour, environmental governance and corporate tax among others.


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document