External CSR as strategic action in the shadow of commercial interests : a study into oil and gas companies in Trinidad and Tobago

In countries such as Trinidad and Tobago (T&T), the energy sector can make a significant contribution to country and community development, through corporate social responsibility (CSR). Focusing on socioeconomic and environmental domains, this paper examines what drives companies to develop external CSR activities. Taking an institutional approach, combining internal features of companies with the national and international institutional context, it studies the external CSR behaviour of three energy companies operating in T&T. It concludes that the companies develop external CSR activities hardly in alliance with their core business but do show a strong interest in fence line communities. While the companies’ external CSR might contribute to public goals, it is developed in an ad hoc manner, and in isolation of public policy. Instead it results from streetwise tactic behaviour. As civil society holds a weak position and the state opts for a laissezfaire approach, leaving room for the mother companies to shape CSR behaviour.