Corporate social responsibility in focus of OSCE-supported discussion in Armenia

YEREVAN, 5 October 2016 – A presentation on corporate social responsibility for Armenia’s business companies and a public discussion on the issues among the business community were held on 5 October 2016 in Yerevan organized by the OSCE Office in Yerevan and the Business Support Centre.

The importance of corporate social responsibility for business development, achievements and acknowledgement among customers and employees, as well as its impact on trademarks and positive reputations was the focus of the debate. Some 50 representatives from state institutions, international and civil society organizations, and the business community participated at the event.

Economic and Environmental Programme Officer at the OSCE Office Matthias Lichtenberger said: “The OSCE Office strives to foster economic development and a better business environment in Armenia. Currently corporate social responsibility is a non-separable part of modern business practices. We are glad to contribute to shaping contemporary business ethics and enhancing partnership among the business companies, communities and civil society in Armenia.”

The OSCE-supported guidebook on corporate social responsibility launched at the event is the second and improved edition of the publication elaborated by the Business Support Centre for Armenian businesses.

Samvel Gevorgyan, the founding director of the Business Support Centre noted:  “The guidebook elaborates best international practice in the area and we hope it will offer a useful tool for representatives of business entities and professional unions in developing and implementing corporate social responsibility concepts and strategies within their business activities.”