The effectiveness of corporate social responsibility initiatives to promote labour and human rights in the global supply chains. A case study of effectiveness of Nike's CSR initiatives and actions.

Abstract: The aim of the thesis is to examine the effectiveness of Nike’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and activities in promoting and securing labour and human rights in the global supply chains; and illustrate whether CSR can actually be effective in improving the labour conditions. The problem area lays on loose global regulations and governance gaps, which voluntary CSR has fulfilled. The thesis seeks to explore the possibilities and challenges of CSR in improving the issues within supply chains in the clothing and footwear industry. The research is conducted with a case study method by using Nike’s CSR as an example. The theoretical framework is based on stakeholder approach, and further framed with Sustainable Development Goals. The study is conducted by using reports from NGOs as well as Nike’s own reporting on sustainable CSR. The research identifies that Nike’s CSR has been quite effective in promoting labour conditions with the help of CSR; however, CSR has not been able to remove the problems. These issues are outlined with implementation problems of CSR and the lack of stakeholder inclusion, concrete action plans and lack of training of the workers. CSR has not effectively reached sustainability of production and more developed solutions, such as stronger regulations are required for effectuate the CSR. The thesis leaves an open possibility for companies to use CSR effectively to promote labour and human rights.