Developing a Community-Corporate Partnership Model of Corporate Social Responsibility for Developing Countries

摘要

This study was situated within the larger corporate social responsibility (CSR) context. Partnerships among multinational corporations (MNCs), communities, NGOs, and government were identified as the key stakeholders of CSR in developing countries. The purpose was to develop a community corporate partnership (CCPR) model with a systemic approach to integrate CSR into the business operations of MNCs. The research question was "what are the core characteristics of a corporate social responsibility model based on a community corporate partnership?" Key concepts discussed were CSR using the works of Bowen (1953) and Carroll (1990), and stakeholder issues based on the work of R. E. Freeman's (1984). Existing literature on CSR in developing countries was corroborated and stakeholder partnership practices were identified as contributing to ineffective CSR implementation.;The current study tested a model developed prior to this study and refined the CCPR model with a research tool kit comprised of adaptations of phenomenological perspectives and lessons from a pilot study. Data were obtained from 17 purposively selected participants from Ghana using the Delphi research method to collect, analyze, and recommend improvements to the data during the study. Two in-depth questionnaires were used; the initial interview determined the existing practice of CSR whereas the second tested the model utilizing a 15-question interview guide.;Themes developed from transcribed field notes established the existing practice of CSR and were used to refine the initial CCPR model. Identified themes were capacity building, empowerment, partnership, collaboration, and a systemic perspective.;Doing the study brought the ineffectiveness of the present practice of CSR to the foreground and helped create discussion on alternative ways of implementation. It is valuable for envisioning and implementing new forms of CSR rooted in community partnership. It paves the way for further dialogue among the stakeholders and for future research on the transformational processes of the other stakeholders as they engage with the CCPR process.