A research study submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Business Administration

Research Studies Project Report (M.B.A.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2012

The research analyzes the practices of corporate social responsibility (CSR) of selected companies from the cement, telecom munication and airlines industries in France and Thailand. The practices of the chosen companies are analyzed from their CSR Reports/Annual Reports for the Financial Year of 2010 - 2011 using a set of CSR indicators under the economic, environmental and soci al dimensions to find out the extent of corporate social responsibility practices of the chosen companies. The analysis shows a significant difference in the extent of CSR participation among the French and Thai companies as French companies show a higher level of participation in CSR compared to that of the Thai companies. CSR initiatives have been integrated into the operationalization procedures of French companies whereas Companies in Thailand have been practicing mostly voluntary activities including l ocal development and community engagement. The Thai companies have a lot to improve to become more responsible through better engagement with stakeholders and strategic CSR practices. Also the disclosure of CSR practices can be improved for Thai companies if they adapt the international guidelines and principles. The findings also indicate that there are several factors including culture, role of regulatory bodies and peer pressure that play a significant role in the performanc of CSR practices by the companies.