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Corporate social responsibility: State of the question in Ecuador

Abstract:

The purpose of this chapter is to examine the background, regulations, main practices and initiatives, as well as the pending issues regarding corporate social responsibility (CSR) in Ecuador. The methodology used focuses on carrying out a search and presentation of the most relevant facts and background that gave rise to the adoption of strategies and programmes by Ecuadorian companies in terms of social responsibility. In addition, it examines the international influence on the social, labour, and environmental responsibilities that the Ecuadorian business sector must fulfil. Among the main findings, it can be mentioned that the concern for the issue of corporate social responsibility in Ecuador is shared by a series of agents, international organizations, several public sector organizations, civil society associations, business associations, and universities. Although this interest is shared in a general way, by making a more detailed analysis, it can be seen that the initiatives only come from the State, with little promotion by the Decentralized Autonomous Governments (GADs) towards this issue. However, the initiative of the Municipality of Quito is worth mentioning, which is one of the 24 GADs in the territory that carries out actions aimed at motivating companies in the area to launch CSR actions. On the other hand, it is observed that in Ecuador, the subsidiaries of transnational companies are established as pioneers in social responsibility practices and processes, thus demonstrating the international influence on the local business environment. It is also noteworthy that most of the companies that make up important economic groups in the country perform or collaborate with corporate social responsibility practices. Finally, it is observed that business initiatives in this area respond to palliative and/or short-term issues of incentives, promotion, and social marketing.