Reviewing the news headlines of the last weeks and months, it is obvious that the economic downturn is the still one of the most important subjects. And it seems that it will continue that way in the future. Here are some highlights of stories about CSR and the economic downturn that I recently read and thought would be interesting to share with you:

In his article in The Independent Richard Northedge describes the economic downturn as a welcome excuse for corporations to cut down on their CSR activities. He backs up his claims with various examples.

I think the economic crisis provides a severe test for all companies to see whether they actually walk their talk, even when the road gets bumpy. I think there are even more reasons to stick to CSR  during the crisis. I read in an article in Ethical Corporation that customers demand CSR as manifested.

CSR is also necessary to restore the favourable business and investment environment that civil society supports. This is why Wang Ke pledges in his article that firms should take on even more social responsibility during a crisis. Furthermore, today’s students – our future managers – support CSR and demand it from corporations. As CNN recently reported, MBA students at Harvard Business School made an oath to serve the greater good for society.

CSR is demanded – even more so during rough times. Let’s keep it on track.

Jeannette Weisschuh, Director of Global Citizenship, HP EMEA