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<div> <div> <div> <p><span>The Constitutional Framework for Corporate Social Responsibility in Tanzania </span></p> </div> </div> </div>

Domain:

socioeconomic

Record type:

paper
Creator:
Eli
Publisher:
Elsevier BV
Host:
This article analyses the adequacy of the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania in promoting Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The article employs legal analysis to systematically examine constitutional provisions and their practical application in fostering CSR. The study finds that the Constitution of Tanzania does not explicitly mandate CSR. This is also a common feature globally, as no constitution imposes direct CSR obligations on businesses. However, the Constitution of Tanzania provides foundational ideals that support responsible business practices through principles of common good, public participation, integrity, legal compliance, sustainable harnessing of national wealth, and access to information. Nevertheless, the Constitution contains three significant barriers to CSR enforcement: ouster clauses, limitation clauses, and claw-back clauses, which together prevent courts from enforcing fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy. These clauses also render CSR foundations mere ideals rather than obligations. The clauses further undermine CSR transparency and accountability. The study, therefore, recommends strategic constitutional reforms to strengthen responsible business practices.