| Abstract [eng] |
The aim of the thesis is to disclose the opportunities and provide the guidelines for the implementation of corporate social responsibility initiatives. In order to achieve this aim, the following objectives were defined: to study the theoretical aspects of the corporate social responsibility; disclose the theoretical aspects of the implementation of corporate social responsibility initiatives; investigate the feasibility of the implementation of corporate social responsibility initiatives in the business enterprises operating in Kedainiai District; provide the guidelines for the implementation of corporate social responsibility initiatives. Data collection methods: analysis of scientific references and quantitative research. The analysis of scientific references revealed that the corporate social responsibility (CSR) is defined as the value of economic benefits; the inclusion into enterprise performance and observance of environmental and social issues; compliance with sustainable development; the aspect of volunteering, and the importance of stakeholders. The main theories regarding corporate social responsibility can be divided into four groups: instrumental theories, political theories, integrated theories and ethical theories. The corporate social responsibility is important due to economic, social and environmental factors and affects all stakeholders: the government, employees, customers, suppliers and the society. The main models of corporate social responsibility include the classic profit-oriented model, the model of the corporate social responsibility and stakeholders' model. The study of the measures used for the implementation of corporate social responsibility initiatives revealed that the key ones are the code of ethics, certified management standards, networks and agreements as well as the reports regarding the implementation of social responsibility. The comparative analysis of the CSR criteria and measurement revealed that, in order to objectively evaluate the implementation of corporate social responsibility initiatives, the following criteria should be analyzed: the environment protection; involvement of employee/stakeholder groups; labour standards; leadership/organization management; transparent business/struggle against corruption; human rights; communal spirits, and ethical performance. The results of the empirical research revealed that the implementation of corporate social responsibility initiatives in the business enterprises operating in Kedainiai District have weaknesses. Business enterprises in Kedainiai lack social responsibility initiatives and their employees are not sufficiently involved in them. The results of the investigation uncovered that enterprises do not sufficiently promote the diversity of employees, and employees often carry out the tasks that are not included in their job description. The study also revealed that it is important for the management to inform about all the investment in the welfare of their employees. The study disclosed that employees are punished for various offences, can not freely take breaks at work when they need them. Taking into account the study of scientific references and the results of quantitative research, the original guidelines for the implementation of corporate social responsibility initiatives have been defined, which can serve as recommendations for enterprises to implement corporate social responsibility initiatives. |
