Corporate social responsibility : the options for a way forward

Abstract

This dissertation examines Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) from a number of angles and seeks to propose a way forward in terms of CSR in Malta. Firstly, the dissertation examines the development of the notion of CSR going from simple philanthropy to a wide concept that necessitates a holistic approach. The dissertation than examines the status quo of CSR in Malta and in the wider European context. The dissertation than examines the dynamic debate examining jurisdictions where a strictly regulated approach has been adopted such as India and jurisdictions where a more voluntary approach has been adopted, such as the United Kingdom. Furthermore, the dissertation examines arguments against CSR as a whole, which arguments range from CSR being a strait jacket on business to CSR being a smokescreen used by large corporations to improve their public image. In building on these overviews the dissertation than makes a number of proposals intended for consideration for adoption in Malta. These proposals build themselves on the already existent framework of CSR locally and continue to build on the voluntary approach which has been adopted both locally and within the wider European context. All be it, the proposals seek to widen the application of CSR so that Small and Medium Enterprises, which form the backbone of the Maltese economy, are no longer left out in the cold in terms of CSR. The proposals are also intended to create a situation where a holistic approach to CSR would create a win-win situation for both the private sector and the public sector.