CSR Asia Briefing: Philanthropy Partnering- Global versus Local Perspective
2^nd December 2009

Speakers:

Anne Marie Davies, Regional Learning Advisor, Plan International
Ann Burgraff Rowel, Room to Read Singapore Volunteer Chapter Leader

In today’s globalized world, business leaders can no longer confine their businesses in their respective home countries. In order to be competitive and capture the mass audience, a global mindset is pivotal and should be taken into account in a company’s overall business strategy.

CSR Asia recently held a briefing titled “Philanthropy Partnering- Global versus Local Perspective” and the discussion revolved around global contribution to the population of uneducated girls. In developing countries like Cambodia, India, Thailand, females are heavily discriminated from obtaining education in schools.

Plan International and Room to Read took the issue seriously and decided to design a campaign which involved building schools and libraries to open up opportunities for neglected and uneducated girls.

Education is key to any society, particularly in developing countries, in order prevent gender discrimination.  It is important for girls to be independent and educated, because it can significantly reduce the number of girls entering marriages at the age of 12.   Furthermore, a woman plays a big role in her family and community and tends to pass down her knowledge to her children.

Companies, whether local or multinational, can contribute to this social issue through their CSR programs. They have the financial capability to help out and it should be done in a sustainable way through teacher training programs as opposed to just focusing on building libraries and schools. Education is a human right, regardless of gender, and companies can play a big role in a society, whilst still achieving their bottom line.