The Arab Administrative Development Organization, which operates under the League of Arab States, will be holding the 1st Arab Forum for Corporate Social Responsibility in cooperation with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The event, slated for April 13 to 15, 2009 at the Chamber headquarters with the theme 'Arab and Foreign Experiences.'

The forum will gather high-level delegations from different Arab countries. Its importance lies in its complementary role alongside other previous events which revealed the practical experiences of leading Arab countries in adopting social responsibility principles.

Social responsibility is a relatively new concept in the Arab World although it has already become crucial in helping Arab companies project and promote a positive image throughout the Arab business community.

The event will highlight the experiences of participating Arab countries and analyze them based on high international standards such as the economic and social framework of the country; current business conditions; service to the surrounding community; and environmental and resource conservation.

Organisers hope to attract senior executives in Arab and multi-national companies from the private and public sectors; leaders of civil society organizations; researchers, media professionals and activists involved in social responsibility; human rights organizations; and members of the United Nations and the Arab League.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) goes beyond donations to projects, developmental programs and charities. CSR requires a commitment to social development principles that provide several advantages to communities which can help them avoid negative economic, social and environmental conditions.

There are several areas included in social responsibility, including business management in accordance with ethical rules and principles; protection and preservation of major resources such as water, forests, wildlife and soil; prevention of and resistance to corruption; and the protection of human rights which can be achieved by, for example, helping workers acquire economic and social benefits such as savings, insurance, family care.

The Arab Administrative Development Organization was founded in 1961 as a specialized organization under the League of Arab States tasked to achieve administrative development in the Arab region and address comprehensive development issues.

The organization provides Arab governments with various services and programs and collaborates with governmental and business organizations as well as the private sector and administrative leaderships on all the levels.