“Laggards” is an often-used term, frequently said in exasperation, anger or resignation, usually in contrast to “leaders”. In the worlds of corporate responsibility and business and human rights, the two words delineate a spectrum.

At one end are companies that stay abreast of, contribute to and apply international best practice. These firms are active in forums in their industry and beyond, and are in constant conversation with non-governmental organisations and civil society. At the other end are companies that do not seem to be making any effort to even learn about good practice – and for the most part get away with it.

But this dichotomy is neither true nor helpful. Laggards are not all pure evil, out to exploit their workers and host communities to make a dishonest buck. Some companies may fit that unfortunate profile, but for the vast majority of enterprises, there are other, more benign forces at play. Many employees “handle” social issues as part of a broad portfolio that might include human resources, communications or the environment. We all know that the demands of the immediate trump those of the long term.

Please login to view whole article - or subscribe here.
For a free two week trial to Ethical Corporation online, please click here.