Ethics and corporate social responsibility in HR: A comprehensive review of policies and practices

Njideka Phina Onyekwelu 1, Catherine Ezeafulukwe 2, Oluwaseyi Rita Owolabi 3, Onyeka Franca Asuzu 4, *, Binaebi Gloria Bello 5 and Somtochukwu Cynthia Onyekwelu 6

1 Department of Business Administration, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.
2 Independent Researcher, Lagos, Nigeria.
3 Independent Researcher, Indianapolis Indiana, USA.
4 Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, Lagos Nigeria.
5 Kings International School, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
6 Faculty of Law, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.
 
Review
International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024, 11(01), 1294–1303
Article DOI: 10.30574/ijsra.2024.11.1.0216
Publication history: 
Received on 26 December 2023; revised on 03 February 2024; accepted on 05 February 2024
 
Abstract: 
The integration of ethics and corporate social responsibility (CSR) in Human Resources (HR) has emerged as a critical aspect of organizational management, reflecting a paradigm shift in business dynamics towards sustainability and societal well-being. This paper provides a comprehensive review of policies and practices pertaining to ethics and CSR in HR, shedding light on the evolving landscape of responsible corporate conduct. In recent years, organizations have recognized the profound impact HR policies and practices can have on the ethical fabric of the workplace. This review examines the multifaceted dimensions of ethics in HR, encompassing recruitment, employee relations, training, and performance evaluation. It underscores the importance of fostering a culture of fairness, diversity, and inclusivity in HR processes, acknowledging the pivotal role HR plays in shaping the organizational ethos. Moreover, the paper delves into the intricate relationship between CSR and HR, emphasizing the role of HR in implementing and championing CSR initiatives. Companies are increasingly acknowledging their societal responsibilities and are aligning HR strategies with broader CSR goals. This involves addressing social and environmental concerns, promoting community engagement, and ensuring ethical supply chain practices. The paper explores the mechanisms through which HR can effectively contribute to the fulfillment of CSR commitments. Furthermore, the review examines emerging trends and best practices in ethics and CSR in HR. It considers the adoption of technology, the incorporation of sustainable HR practices, and the development of metrics for measuring social impact. The paper concludes by highlighting the imperative for organizations to align HR policies and practices with ethical principles and CSR goals, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between responsible HR management and sustainable business success. As organizations navigate an era of heightened societal expectations, a strategic integration of ethics and CSR in HR emerges as a cornerstone for fostering a socially responsible and ethically sound corporate environment.
 
Keywords: 
HR; Policies; CSR; Ethics; Review
 
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