The Internationally Evolving Concept of Corporate Social Responsibility

This article discusses the evolution of the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), whose origins can be traced back to Roman law. CSR, in its modern form, developed during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, with significant contributions from Howard R. Bowen and William C. Frederick. Contemporary CSR encompasses three key aspects: economic, social, and environmental. In international law, it is a voluntary business self-regulation model that promotes actions beyond the minimum legal requirements. This article also presents various categories of CSR, such as philanthropy, ethical responsibility, environmental responsibility, and economic responsibility, and provides examples of modern CSR practices. This concept is an important tool for building corporate reputation and enhancing customer and employee loyalty. The article concludes by outlining future trends in CSR, which may include greater transparency and innovative approaches to managing social and environmental impacts.