Projects

Corporate Social Responsibility

International CSR

Business routines in Germany today are defined by globalization. Many companies now operate simultaneously in various countries. They maintain production sites throughout the world, work across continents with suppliers and sell their products in a global market. In the course of their international business activities - especially in developing and emerging economies - companies are confronted with special economic, political and social challenges such as poverty and insufficient health care and education. Insufficient governmental problem-solving capabilities within less-developed countries increases the influence and responsibilities of global players. Social responsibility on the part of companies can make a major contribution here to fair organization of globalization. But the benefits are not limited to the society in the target market: involvement in social issues helps to develop markets, connect employers to suppliers, minimize risks and develop products for specific countries.

The Bertelsmann Foundation has set its sights on promoting and raising international awareness of corporate involvement in social issues within foreign countries.

Focal points

CSR Policy

The study "CSR Navigator -- Public policies in Africa, the Americas, Asia and Europe," which was published in October 2007, examined methods used by public policymakers to promote social responsibility among companies within their areas of influence. This involved identifying the driving forces behind the development of CSR policies and the instruments that exist for promoting CSR within 13 countries in Africa, the United States, Asia and Europe. In the process, it became clear that active involvement of public policymakers is an indispensable component to creating a functioning national culture of corporate social responsibility.

CSR WeltWeit

One problem in implementing sustained business activity in foreign countries is the lack of information. The Bertelsmann Foundation addresses this hurdle by offering German companies extensive information and networking services covering CSR topics on the Internet. German companies can obtain detailed information about the significance of CSR within specific countries, as well as about areas of activity and partners. By presenting good examples of local social involvement, the portal is intended to help raise awareness of corporate responsibility on the part of German businesses within foreign countries.