BEYOND CSR, AIMING AT VULNERABLE STAKEHOLDERS’ EMPOWERMENT: AN ETHICAL PERSPECTIVE BASED ON THE CAPABILITY APPROACH

Abstract

This article analyzes several CSR policies through the capabilities of vulnerable stakeholders. While presenting the Relational Capability Index (RCI), its basic principles, and several empirical investigations in Nigeria, India, Mexico, Indonesia, Argentina, and Brazil, the article highlights the systemic effects of corporate actions on the empowerment of the most vulnerable. This type of index, built according to a relational vision of the company and inspired by the capability approach, makes it possible to assess the quality of social ties in a territory, as well as the relations between the company and its stakeholders and, more broadly, living environments in a long-term perspective. The emphasis on the relational capabilities of vulnerable stakeholders and on the political role of the company within contemporary societies and toward future generations invites us to rethink corporate social responsibility by considering the way it acts and cooperates to promote institutions and systems truly enhancing sustainable human development.