Corporate Social Responsibility of Multinational Corporations in Developing Countries: How far do their Roles and Responsibility Stretch

Abstract

In recent times, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has been the subject of much discussion. Most discussions tend to focus on human rights, environmental and labour issues. This thesis will address corruption as a CSR issue. International business is frequently involved in bribe payments to foreign public officials which impact the political, economic and social aspects of society, especially in developing countries. There is therefore the need for the examination of the role CSR can play in curbing corruption. CSR is typically seen as encompassing self-regulatory, non-binding rules. However, CSR also encompasses binding rules developed to improve corporate behaviour. By examining binding and non-binding rules applicable to corruption and international business, the thesis seeks to find ways to hold corporations accountable and thus help curb corruption. The thesis also provides a model framework for structuring CSR.