Corporate Social Responsibility in Europe: United in Sustainable Diversity – a Summary

Abstract

In the majority of countries in Europe Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is understood as a management concept determined by relevant market actors including consumers, investors, public policy makers, NGOs and the media. While generally depicted as an entrepreneurial concept, it is increasingly shaping the role of European authorities, international agencies and national governments thus, creating a new dimension of governmental representation. The concept represents corporate enterprises acting beyond their legal obligations to enhance societal and environmental well-being. It combines profit-oriented business approaches with social and ethical values as well as the long-term strategic thinking common to sustainability. It is the organizational bridge between action and interaction. Through CSR, enterprises can develop novel solutions, approaches and innovation that foster the stable and sustainable coexistence between societal values and profitable economics.