QCEA Statement
on the European Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Corporate Social Responsibility
“We
see a Europe in which the private corporations strive not only to
make profit but also to contribute to the society that makes those
profits possible. They have a rightful place in civil society
and must contribute to it according to their means, abilities, and
talents.” (A
Quaker Vision of Europe)
Whilst
corporations gain importance in the lives of many people around
the world, QCEA sees the European Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Corporate
Social Responsibility as an opportunity to hear and express views
about how business can contribute to a peaceful, compassionate,
open and just society, both here in Europe and around the world.
Quakers
actively believe in the importance of making sure that every voice
is heard. It is towards a society where respect of diversity prevails
but also by listening and acting in accordance with our aims that
Quakers work. The long Quaker history of involvement in business
and entrepreneurship reflects the witness that every action should
be guided by the insight that ‘there is that of God in everyone’
and so reflects the position that it is possible to be in business
and maintain spiritual values.
Whilst
the Multi-Stakeholder Forum can work towards the aim of sustainable
development, it is vital that the Forum and its members work in
a way that ensures the values of mutual trust and respect for every
voice. It is both to further the aim of a peaceful, compassionate,
open and just society and also to seek to find methods of working
that respect every voice in moving towards such an aim that QCEA
is involved in the Multi-Stakeholder Forum. |
