In a groundbreaking revelation, esteemed Public Relations experts have emphasized that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) should no longer remain the exclusive domain of large corporations, multinationals, or affluent individuals. Instead, it must become the collective responsibility of every individual and business, irrespective of size, to enhance societal well-being and champion environmental sustainability, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This crucial assertion surfaced during the momentous unveiling ceremony of the book titled ‘Social Responsibility and Sustainable Development,’ a collaborative effort authored by esteemed personalities, Dr. Wole Adamolekun and Dr. Rotimi Olatunji.
During the event, the book’s reviewer, Lanre Arogundade (represented by Oladokun Omojola), underscored that “CSR ought not to be the exclusive purview or duty solely incumbent upon corporate giants or the excessively wealthy. Rather, it should be a shared concern, driving impact across all strata of society.”
He further elucidated, stating that, “Corporate Social Responsibility, whether with or without the ‘corporate’ tag, holds immense potential for the future. It serves as a defining factor for businesses poised for preeminence. Past corporate debacles, which tarnished the reputations of numerous multinational entities, shed light on the dire consequences of unethical practices such as falsified performance accounts, substandard labor practices, human rights violations, corruption, exacerbated poverty, conflict, and detrimental environmental impacts. These serve as stark reminders of pitfalls to be avoided, eventually paving the way for optimal performance in environmental, social, and financial realms.”
The Chairman of the ceremony, Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, who also serves as the Group Managing Director of CMC Connect LLP, emphasized, “Our world is in a state of flux, and the repercussions of neglecting societal contributions and evading social responsibility are palpable. Although times may seem challenging, it is imperative that we collectively endeavor to do more.”
This clarion call for an expansive and inclusive approach to CSR reflects a paradigm shift in societal values, emphasizing the indispensable need for shared accountability in fostering sustainable growth and societal advancement.