While many companies are reducing their social and community activities due to the current economic situation, companies in Qatar are looking to enhance their corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies. According to the organizers of Qatar’s first major conference, Qatar-based companies are seeking to provide higher levels of community engagement to reassure the people of Qatar and enable the nation’s ongoing growth and development.

The Corporate Social Responsibility Conference, held under the patronage of Minister of Business and Trade HE Sheikh Fahad bin Jassim bin Mohamed al-Abdulrahman al-Thani, will showcase the progressive policies of many of Qatar’s leading companies. Telecommunications company, Qtel, sponsors the event, and will reveal the company's long-standing practise of investing in the local community and local charities.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Business and Trade, H E Sheikh Fahad bin Jassem bin Mohammad Al Thani, called for the setting up of a corporate social responsibility general index for Qatari companies. The index, intended to gauge the performance and the level of social commitment of companies based on rigorous standards, would strengthen the competitiveness among businesses and give them incentives to boost their role in the community.

An annual award will be instituted for best performing companies in recognition for their efforts.

Sheikh Fahad. speaking of the CSR principles, said, “The main message we want to convey to the business community in Qatar, is the fact that business does not only relate to generate profits. The benefits a company brings to the community should also be taken into consideration.”

He also said that some of the factors behind the current global economic crisis result from irresponsible practices of some in the business sector.