As the European Multi Stakeholder Forum on CSR gathers momentum, it is only natural that attention should turn to addressing how the majority of businesses in Europe - SMEs - are dealing with corporate social responsibility (CSR).
From this perspective the question is not so much whether it is realistic to expect SMEs to take on the CSR agenda but rather how responsible business practices - based on economic, social and environmental considerations - are being integrated into the core activities and strategies of Europe's SMEs.
A realistic approach to SMEs and social responsibility needs first and foremost to be grounded in reality. That means acknowledging and valuing current practices: SMEs are already actively addressing economic, social and environmental issues on a daily basis. Contrary to larger companies SMEs do not publicise or label these activities as being CSR. The challenge for policy makers and the broader business community lies in finding collaborative ways in which to strengthen, help to improve and support SMEs in their current practices.
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