In March 2006 the Commission issued a communication on Corporate Social Responsibility entitled: “Implementing the partnership for growth and jobs, making Europe a pole of excellence on Corporate Social Responsibility”. This short document (6 pages + annexes) propose a “new partnership with enterprises”, a new alliance, which will help:

• To raise awareness and improve knowledge on CSR
• To mainstream and develop open coalitions of co-operation
• To ensure an enabling environment for CSR

CSR is regarded as “increasingly important for the smooth functioning of the market economy”. It can “help bring about both a more responsible business community and a more entrepreneurial and business-friendly Europe”.

The Commission also announced a review of the Multi-stakeholders Forum, which will help evaluate the progress made and the gaps still to bridge.