What is Corporate Social Responsibility? It is a phrase that is used frequently in business, government and civil society. There is, however, no single definition of CSR that is understood and adopted by all. The meaning of CSR and, indeed, CSR strategies remain heterogeneous, and differ from country to country, from region to region. It is seen by some organizations as an essential part of their business plan, while treated by others as a mere afterthought in their overall corporate strategy.

The differences in perspectives of CSR are perhaps most accentuated in the contrast between Europe and Asia. These differences notwithstanding, CSR is undeniably a global issue. Events such as the global financial crisis have highlighted this, making CSR more relevant than ever before. CSR can help to build (and rebuild) trust in business, which is vital for the health of economies in Europe and in Asia. It can also point the way to new forms of value creation based on addressing societal challenges, which represent part of the way out of the crisis.

Attitudes towards CSR have evolved in recent years. CSR extends beyond the traditional notion of philanthropic activities and now addresses 21st Century challenges such as sustainability, good ethics and fighting climate change. Before any organization can embark on a meaningful CSR programme it needs to understand what the concepts are and how to implement them. The aim of the seminar is to examine the notion of CSR and the importance of involving all stakeholders. The seminar will also identify the real challenges a company might face when implementing a CSR strategy and, more broadly, facilitate an exchange of views from companies from Asia and Europe. This would allow businesses to take advantage of the diversity of views and experiences so as to further enhance their companies’ global strategies.

You are cordially invited to participate in this seminar which is free of charge. As places are limited, acceptances will be on a first-come-first-served basis.

Time	Programme
8.30 am - 9.00 am	Registration
9.15 am - 9.30 am	Opening remarks by His Excellency Holger Standertskjold, Ambassador and Head of EU Delegation to Singapore
9.30 am - 10.30 am	Keynote speech delivered by Mark Wade, Tomorrow's Company Topic: What is CSR? Moderator: Dr Yeo Lay Hwee, Director, EU Centre Q&A session will follow
10.30 am - 10.45 am	Coffee break
10.45 am - 11.45 am	Panel Discussion I Topic: CSR in Europe and Asia Speaker 1: Mr. Thomas Dodd, Policy Officer, CSR, European Commission Speaker 2: Dr Filemon A. Uriarte, Executive Director, ASEAN Foundation, Jakarta Moderator: Mr Thomas Thomas, Executive Director, Singapore Compact Society

Please send in your response to Betty by fax: 6775-6264 or email: betty@iseas.edu.sg by Friday, 12 March 2010.

Attached is the registration form for your completion.