Ethics in international business

The purpose of this paper is to emphasise the importance of the study of ethics in an international context in business courses.

The paper begins with proposed learning outcomes. It examines, using contemporary examples, the increased importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR), the implications of national and international legislation concerning ethical issues and the need for sound overall corporate governance. It concludes with analysis of recent progress towards sustaining ethical standards. The various key ethical dilemmas which occur in business are examined using recent examples, both from the UK and internationally.

The paper presents an optimistic analysis of recent progress made in the development of ethical standards in business, including suggestions for future good practice, both internationally and at company level.

The paper emphasises the importance of sound governance, which is fundamental to the success in fostering ethical practices in international business.