ABSTRACT
The Human Resources (HR) function is the key partner in embedding Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability initiatives in any organisation, as this can be achieved only when a company educates, engages and empowers its entire workforce. This chapter proposes that the HR function has a responsibility to be proactive in leading the way in establishing a company-wide CSR-enabled culture. HR and CSR must move from 'impacts on employees' to 'positive impacts by employees' — this entails practising CSR internally and ensuring a responsible workplace as an essential element of any CSR programme. HR managers can no longer plead ignorance. They must be aware of the rights of employees, ensure these are upheld in the business, and act to ensure that each and every employee both understands and actively ensures his or her rights are upheld.
