The role of CSR in development : a case study involving the mining industry in South America

Abstract

This thesis explores whether companies' corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs can contribute to the sustainable development of the communities in which they operate. A case study of Newmont Mining's CSR initiatives in Cajamarca, Peru and Oruro, Bolivia is presented to illustrate and to respond to some of the key issues brought to the fore in the debate about the role of CSR in development. The case study suggests that there is potential for carefully managed CSR activities to contribute to local sustainable development; however, it also suggests that there are obstacles and limits to the contributions CSR programs can make. This study concludes with an in-depth discussion of what types of projects are most effective and what conditions are required for companies' CSR programs to make a lasting contribution to the development of the communities in which they operate.