While corporate social responsibility (CSR) has been an integral component of the private sector and has certainly done good, it is also true that corporate responsibility in Bangladesh has been narrowly defined, and oftentimes fails to maximize the impact it could have.
One of these avenues is addressing the needs of persons with disabilities; while CSR activities are usually focused on philanthropy or token projects, there remain many within our nation excluded from opportunities, services, and dignity.
To that end, we agree with the experts and stakeholders who recently spoke at an event organized by the Centre for Disability in Development (CDD) in association with the Bangladesh Business and Disability Network (BBDN), in partnership with Liliane Fonds and Dhaka Tribune that businesses must move beyond charity-driven CSR initiatives and invest in long-term disability-inclusive development, especially for the children and youth.
Indeed, if CSR is to mean anything, it must embrace inclusion as a core principle, not an afterthought. Bangladesh has over 10 million citizens living with disabilities, most of whom face barriers in all walks of life.
While the government itself must do more to address the needs of these individuals, corporate initiatives too can address these needs. CSR programs must move away from prioritizing visibility over impact. This is not only unjust but a missed opportunity.
Inclusive CSR requires action. CSR activities can drive awareness campaigns that challenge stigma and promote acceptance while working with the government to ensure that corporate contributions align with national commitments.
It has long been rightfully stated that our progress cannot be measured only in GDP growth but instead must be judged by whether all citizens, including those with disabilities, share in opportunity and dignity. CSR is often looked at as charity and yet, it must become what it says it is - social responsibility.
