Stakeholders and Community Development: Engaging Multinational Corporations in Poverty Alleviation in Mekong Countries

Abstract

This paper explores poverty alleviation actions from multinational corporations (MNCs) in Laos and Thailand, in the form of corporate social responsibility (CSR). The key focus is given to the nature and types of CSR activities. The researchers collected primary data from three MNCs in Laos and Thailand and secondary data from corporate resources. The results identify three emerging themes: (1) economic contribution and community participation, (2) community interactive relation strategy, and (3) capacity building in human rights. Data also supports that there are both similarities and differences in approaches by MNCs, roles they play, and challenges from the host countries in conducting poverty alleviation activities.