The World Economic Forum released their annual Global Competitiveness Report on September 28th. Their comprehensive report identified the many factors and standpoints of the nation’s business climate. Highlighting the many matters that must be addressed immediately, it shed light on the necessity for the progress of institution, health, education and infrastructure. These aspects are the foundation of any developed nation and in our endeavor to become one, citizens and businesses must unite for a better society. After the havoc unleashed by the fire in Tazreen, the Rana Plaza building collapse and in recent times, the Tampaco fire; we have realized business as usual is no longer an option. Being true to their commitments to become more responsible, our buoyant private sector has also revved up strategies to ensure that environmental and workers compliance issues are adhered to.
On the note of responsibility, this issue of ICE Business Times focuses on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The need for businesses to make the society a part of their everyday business has become a global initiative. With their continual success, these companies must now focus on the many manners in which they can create positive changes. Companies such as Remi Holdings Ltd. provide an exemplary model of how a community can prosper through serving the people. They have created factories that are environmentally stable, energy efficient and keen on improving the quality of life of their employees working and family life.
CSR is a multifaceted discipline with economic, social, environmental and ecological aspects. This could be the installation of solar panels, the awarding of scholarships or the provisions for any basic human right. These acts ultimately create a lasting change throughout the nation. However, change must start with the individual.
Mahatma Gandhi poignantly stated, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” Therefore let us not dwell on the shortcomings of our nation. Let us become the creators of a better tomorrow because the world is not our privilege, it is our responsibility.
