Strategic CSR and child labour: the level of commitment within the tourism sector

Abstract

[eng] Traditionally, it has been thought that it is impossible to do well economically by also doing good for society. This trade-off actually exists when talking about philanthropy, social action or even responsive and uncoordinated CSR. However, it disappears when engaging in strategic CSR or in the concept of Shared Value. Companies may achieve a competitive strategy by differentiating themselves aligning their business strategies to the CSR practices. In that way, CSR can even reinforce the corporate’s strategy and help to the maximization of profits. According to KLD databases, hotel chains, as well as the rest of companies, have low levels of commitment to CSR practices. However, by looking at the actual information about some hotel chains, it can be said that some of them (e.g. Melia) show high commitment to CSR issues. Furthermore, differences among hotel chain exist. Million children continue working mainly in developing countries. The traditional solution of banning it outright may not be the optimal solution because by doing that, children might be engaged in worse occupations like prostitution or slavery. The most socially responsible solution is to analyse each particular case and regulate it in accordance. Moreover, improving economic conditions and education systems could be a quicker way to end with child labour.