Creating Socially Responsible Value Chains: Role of Companies, Governments and NGOs

Abstract

The chapter explores factors that help define ‘socially responsible value chains’, in which firms create and deliver goods and services that provide social and economic value, but minimize negative externalities, operate in environmentally and socially sustainable ways, and address the concerns of all stakeholders. We use the case method to capture nuances of complex value-chain relationships extending into the unfamiliar territory of emerging markets. We chose three cases, involving Apple, Nike and Nestle, which have become landmarks in corporate responsibility policy and practice. We identify fundamental questions pertaining to social responsibility that arise when firms’ value chains extend across countries and deep into the bottom of the pyramid, and discuss how information gaps, institutional environment and socio-political actors affect outcomes. The chapter provides value by defining the role of governments, inter-governmental organizations, NGOs and managers in creating socially responsible value chains, and laying out specific recommendations.

Citation

Vachani, S. and Post, J.E. (2012), "Creating Socially Responsible Value Chains: Role of Companies, Governments and NGOs", Hadjikhani, A., Elg, U. and Ghauri, P. (Ed.) Business, Society and Politics (International Business and Management, Vol. 28), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 17-44. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1876-066X(2012)0000028009