Corporate Social Responsibility in China - Strategies and Challenges

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to understand the implications of CSR implementation in China and social actors’ involvement in this implementation. Previous research indicates that although China has taken the first step towards CSR implementation, it still consists of a challenge. Also, it illustrates that social actors roles in China can be considered differently, and encounter both opportunities and challenges. During the study, a qualitative method was selected and 10 interviews were conducted with social enterprises, NGOs, academics, and companies. The theoretical framework consists of organization theory, as it helps to comprehend the role of CSR and social actors, as well as their impacts and effects related to each other and their environment. In the findings of the social actors’ strategies and methods, parallels to empowerment and action research could be drawn and also recognized as new concepts to integrate in the work of Corporate Social Responsibility. Furthermore, different challenges regarding CSR implementation in China could be identified, and are analyzed with a ground in perspectives such as organizational learning and institutional pressures. Different opinions, insights, and views are collected, and utilized to build a discussion around the matter of implementation of CSR and the involvement of social actors. Issues that have been identified regarding the implementation of CSR practices are that companies sometimes lack knowledge of CSR, and engage in CSR for legitimacy, rather than for organizational improvements. Therefore, social actors play a crucial role in shifting approach towards CSR implementation by introducing new ways of thinking and working through raising awareness, providing trainings, and stimulating partnerships. Although, social actors face challenges towards CSR implementation, their involvement in CSR initiatives and strategies can help companies to prepare to organizational change, and, consequently, it may be a step towards the establishment of CSR in China.