In 2009, the Norwegian government published the whitepaper “Corporate Social Responsibility in a Global Economy”. The purpose of this white paper is to raise awareness about social responsibility in both the private and the public sectors. The Government has a positive impression of Norwegian companies’ ability and willingness to contribute in this area, and the white paper is intended to strengthen this commitment.
The whitepaper is introduced by stating that profitable companies make important contributions to society. They create jobs and help finance the general welfare of the population. The main task of companies is to create value and generate financial results within the legislative framework of the society in which they operate. But companies are not just operating in a market. They are also operating within a culture, a local community and a political system. The debate surrounding corporate social responsibility (CSR) is concerned with the role companies play in this broader social context.
The ethical aspects of CSR have become more apparent as a result of globalisation. To a greater extent than previously, Norwegian companies are engaged in countries with poor human rights records or where human rights are challenged, where working conditions are unacceptable, or where child labour is used. They also operate in areas where there is little concern for the environmental impact of production processes. Legislation and its enforcement vary from country to country. The scale of corruption also varies. To an increasing extent, companies are being questioned about what acceptable business practice is and whether or not the company’s responsibility extends beyond simply complying with the law in the country in which they are operating.
Companies can strengthen their long-term competitiveness and position by having a responsible relationship to employees, consumers, owners and other interested parties. In this way, CSR does not involve a conflict of interests, but is a community of interest that brings together companies, the authorities and other actors.
Download the whitepaper here:
