CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND ITS LEGAL IMPLICATIONS IN GLOBAL TRADE

Abstract

This study very much critically explores the actual  evolving role as well as the   legal implications of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) within that of the  global trade framework, emphasizing how CSR has shifted from a very much  voluntary, philanthropic initiative to a legally significant aspect of that of the  international business governance. In today’s interconnected global economy, multinational corporations hold some of the immense power and influence, making ethical, transparent, and also the  sustainable practices a central concern. The paper highlights how increasing public awareness, consumer demand, and global social movements have pushed CSR into that of the  core of business strategies. More notably, governments as well as the  international bodies are beginning to codify CSR into enforceable legal obligations, embedding these principles in national legislation, court rulings, and trade agreements. Despite this form of the  developments, a key challenge persists: the legal enforceability of CSR remains fragmented, particularly in that of the cross-border contexts where jurisdictional as well as the  regulatory disparities allow for that of the purpose of  exploitation and weak accountability. The literature reviewed emphasizes the growing need for harmonized legal standards and robust enforcement mechanisms, especially in te light of high-profile global incidents and the ethical challenges posed by globalization. Studies by Akpuokwe (2024), Carroll (2021), and Wirba (2023) demonstrate how the way in which  CSR intersects with corporate law, stakeholder interests, crisis response (e.g., COVID-19), and public sector responsibility, arguing for an very much  integrated approach that aligns legal frameworks with CSR objectives. This paper also  ultimately provides valuable insights for  that pf the policymakers, corporations, and legal practitioners, stressing the importance of bridging the gap between CSR rhetoric and practical accountability. It also mainly advocates for a global legal framework that promotes ethical corporate behaviour, ensures avery much  legal consistency, and strengthens stakeholder trust in that of the  international commerce.