On the 25 October 2011 the Commission launched its new Communication on CSR for the period 2011-2014. This Communication - which build on its 2006 predecessor - aims to strengthen EU global leadership on CSR by implementing an intensive ‘Agenda for Action’ with around 30 proposals for CSR commitments. Progress will be monitored and a joint review meeting bringing together the Commission, Member States, enterprises and other stakeholders will be held by mid-2014.
There are a number of aspects in this Communication of interest to AGE. It introduces important new elements to help further extend the impact of CSR policy. In particular, it aims to encourage companies to be even more involved in addressing employment and social issues within the Europe 2020 Strategy and in securing an exit from the economic crisis. Enterprises are also encouraged to adopt a long-term strategic approach to CSR and to explore opportunities for developing innovative products, services and business models that contribute to societal wellbeing and lead to higher quality and more productive jobs. Furthermore, the Commission promotes dialogue with enterprises and other stakeholders on issues such as employability, demographic change and ageing in the context of the upcoming EY2012, and on workplace challenges (including diversity management, gender equality, education and training, and employee health and well-being). The Commission believes these will be drivers of new commercial opportunities for companies. This will also be positive for reinforcement of the social market economy model, mitigation of recent job losses and the achievement of the 75% employment target.
With this new initiative, the Commission will continue to work closely with stakeholders, including companies, trade unions, and NGOs. For instance, to cooperate with CSR Europe to review and define the next steps of its Enterprise 2020 initiative, a reference initiative for companies committed to developing innovative business practices and working together with their stakeholders to provide solutions to emerging societal needs. AGE participates in this Enterprise 2020 initiative through its involvement as a leader in the CSR Europe led Collaborative Venture for the Business Contribution to the European Year for Active Ageing. AGE is also involved in its Collaborative Ventures on Financial Capability for Europe's Youth and Retirees and Using Potential - Jointly Tackling Demographic Change in Europe.
For further details, please contact Rachel Buchanan, Policy Officer for Non-Discrimination and Employment, at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Renewed EU strategy 2011-14 for Corporate Social Responsibility: http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/newsroom/cf/itemlongdetail.cfm?item_id=5511.Collaborative Venture on Business Contribution to the European Year for Active Ageing: http://www.csreurope.org/pages/en/business_contribution_ot_the_european_year_for_active_ageing.html
Last Updated on Monday, 31 October 2011 14:35
