GOVERNMENT ROLES IN SHAPING CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: FOREIGN EXPERIENCE AND IMPLICATION

Abstract

Socially responsible businesses are believed to contribute to the socio-economic wellbeing
of nations by creating favorable working conditions, helping in need, preserving nature, and so
on. All of which contribute to the creation of a favorable business environment for potential investors
and improved country image in front of the global business arena. Corporate Social Responsibility
(CSR) is at an early stage of development in Uzbekistan and learning the foreign experience is of
great importance. Research is undertaken to review potential government roles that it can play
to develop its first CSR policy. Secondary research was undertaken to review academic articles
that have evaluated government roles in shaping CSR policies. Findings suggest the application
of three government roles in combination for the early start: mandating role for setting up a basic
legislative framework, facilitating role for gaining support from businesses on solving social and
economic issues, as well as partnering role to keep a dialogue with industry and civil society for
feedback and further improvements of CSR policies developed.