The overall outcomes of the LARRGE Working Conference can be summarised as follows:

• It needs harmonisationof existing CSR tools instead of the creation of more tools.
• Sector CSR initiatives have proven to be very successful because they reduce competition and address common issues.
• CSR carries with it tremendous benefits for companies including the attraction of better qualified workers, the retention of workers, increased reliability and improved risk management.
• Companies that have integrated CSR into their core business philosophy are not inclined to step back from their commitments because it forms part of their successful business strategy.
• The economic crisis is not a reason for disproportionally cutting back CSR expenses.
• It remains open whether the chances of the crisis are seized and will lead to a more responsible business conduct.
• Auditing is crucial but needs to be accompanied with constant training activities.
• Joint trainings for managers and workers have proved to be very efficient.
• Grievance mechanisms constitute an important internal learning tool that contributes to continuous business improvement.

 

 

Results from the Working Groups in detail:

WG 1: Tackling Key Challenges in CSR Tool Development and Implementation

WG 2: Encountering the Economic Crisis - a Trigger for the Positive Consolidation of CSR?

WG 3: Decent Work and Diversity Management: Complementary or Antagonistic Concepts?

 

 

Conclusions from the Focus Groups in detail:

FG 1: Getting started with a CSR Policy

FG 2: CSR Tools Addressing the Needs of SMEs

FG 3: Monitoring and Participation