International development

Development, Business and Corporate Social Responsibility

Module code: L2131ALA
Level 6
30 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Not yet finalised
Assessment modes: Not yet finalised

On this module you’ll examine the role of business in development and the rise of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) movement.

In recent years, the private sector and transnational corporations have become increasingly important players in the development process. The business and development movement has emerged as part of the dramatic rise of CSR over the past decade, providing a new vision for the role of business in society as 'corporate citizen'.

Development institutions and global NGOs have become increasingly interested in mobilising business, not only as donors, but as partners in development. At the same time, ethical trading initiatives, the fairtrade movement and pro-poor enterprise models offer opportunities for harnessing the power of the market in the service of development.

You’ll explore a number of key questions concerning the role of business in development and the rise of the corporate social responsibility movement, from the perspective of both its proponents and opponents.