CSR Communication in the Age of Political Instability: Building Hope in a Hopeless World
We face political instability due to multiple intersecting world events. Democracies are challenged by populism, authoritarianism, and seemingly insolvable societal polarization. Geopolitical tensions are building up, and conflicts have escalated to the point of open war. These events influence organizations and their communications, especially as many central topics—climate change, human rights, democracy, and economic growth—become increasingly politicized. How can organizations navigate corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability when consensus is lacking, yet calls to take action and be accountable are growing? How do organizations continue CSR and sustainability work and communication? How can CSR communication mediate conflicts, build hope, and prevent paralysis in unstable and backsliding times? Now, more than ever, we need CSR communication scholars to dig into the role of communication and accountability in this age of political instability. We also need them to hold organizations accountable for shaping, constructing, and negotiating our future.
The main 8th CSRCOM conference will begin with a welcome reception on September 22, 2026 (evening) and will run until September 24, 2026 (afternoon). A pre-conference PhD workshop will take place on September 21-22, 2026. More specific information about the conference, PhD workshop and submissions will be available at the conference website.
For any inquiries, please contact CSRCOM2026@lut.fi.