ISO 26000:2010 pdf download – Guidance on social responsibility.
3.1 The social responsibility of organizations: Historical background The term social responsibility came into widespread use in the early 1970s, although various aspects of social responsibility were the subject of action by organizations and governments as far back as the late 19th century, and in some instances even earlier. Attention to social responsibility has in the past focused primarily on business. The term“corporate social responsibility” (CSR) is more familiar to most people than“social responsibility”. The view that social responsibility is applicable to all organizations emerged as different types of organizations, not just those in the business world, recognized that they too had responsibilties for contributing to sustainable development. The elements of social responsibility reflect the expectations of society at a particular time, and are therefore liable to change. As society’s concerns change, its expectations of organizations also change to reflect those concerns. An early notion of social responsibility centred on philanthropic activities such as giving to charity. Subjects such as labour practices and fair operating practices emerged a century or more ago. Other subjects, such as human rights, the environment, consumer protection and countering fraud and corruption, were added over time, as they received greater attention. The core subjects and issues identified in this International Standard reflect a current view of good practice. Views of good practice will also undoubtedly change in the future, and additional issues may come to be seen as important elements of social responsibility. 3.2 Recent trends in social responsibility For a number of reasons, awareness about the social responsibility of organizations is increasing.
The global nature of some environmental and health issues, recognition of worldwide responsibility for combating poverty, growing financial and economic interdependence and more geographically dispersed value chains mean that matters relevant to an organization may extend well beyond those existing in the immediate area in which the organization is located. It is important that organizations address social responsibility irrespective of social or economic circumstances. Instruments such as the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development1s8, the Johannesburg Declaration on Sustainable Development151, the Millennium Development Goals and the ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work emphasize this worldwide interdependence.