Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy 2011-2014

The Commission announces to draw up together with enterprises and other stakeholder a code of conduct in 2012. All enterprises are to commit to comply with CSR approaches on a voluntary basis. In addition, enterprises with more than 1000 employees are to adhere to the internationally recognized ISO 26000 Guidance Standards. In order to establish such self-commitments, the Commission wishes to revise the legal framework, in particular in the field of public procurement and thus put enterprises under pressure.

Obliging enterprises to adhere to such standards, whether by factual pressure or strict rules is not necessary. For if the customers of enterprises show a special interest in the compliance with social and environmental standards, this will be reflected in an increased demand and hence enterprises will address such demands automatically.