CSR Impacted by Economic Sovereignty: Issues and Perspectives[La RSE impactée par la souveraineté économique : enjeux et perspectives]

CSR Impacted by Economic Sovereignty – Issues and Perspectives This book offers an original reflection that bridges Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and economic sovereignty, two notions often perceived as antagonistic. The authors, Philippe Jourdan and Jean-Claude Pacitto, argue that they are in fact deeply interconnected. Defining Economic Sovereignty Unlike autarky, which seeks total self-sufficiency and strategic isolation, economic sovereignty is understood here as the capacity to reduce vulnerabilities and excessive dependencies. It does not aim to sever the interdependencies inherent in globalization but rather to preserve the ability of nations and organizations to decide and act, thereby preventing major crises—whether sanitary, social, environmental, or economic. A Close Link between CSR and Sovereignty CSR is too often confined to transnational initiatives of an ethical or environmental nature, while economic sovereignty is associated with the defense of national interests. The authors defend an integrative vision: true social and ecological responsibility cannot be exercised if one remains trapped by strategic dependencies that limit freedom of choice. Sovereignty thus becomes a condition for CSR, enabling the promotion of ways of life aligned with the values and aspirations of citizens. The CSRD Directive and the Principle of Double Materiality The book provides a detailed analysis of the CSRD directive, which marks a decisive step in the regulatory framework of CSR. Its major contribution is the recognition of the principle of double materiality: on the one hand, the impact of the company on society and the environment; on the other, the risks and opportunities these issues pose for the company itself. This regulatory framework allows for a more comprehensive approach to performance and anchors CSR within the domain of "hard law," reducing the room for organizational hypocrisy. The GAFAM and the Privatization of Politics Another central theme is the growing role of large corporations, particularly the GAFAM, which now rival sovereign states in power. Through their social commitments (foundations, programs to combat violence, diversity initiatives), these actors intervene in areas traditionally reserved for public authorities. While such initiatives sometimes address shortcomings in state action, they also raise the question of a drift toward the privatization of democracy. The authors warn of the risk that societal choices—often divisive—could be dictated by private corporations rather than by democratic debate and citizen sovereignty. A Framework for the Future Ultimately, the book highlights a balanced vision: CSR cannot flourish without economic sovereignty ensuring freedom of decision, and sovereignty has meaning only if it fosters responsible commitments. The reader is thus invited to view CSR and sovereignty as two sides of the same ambition: building organizations that are simultaneously high-performing, ethical, and resilient, in the service of a sustainable and democratic society.