| Summary: | This research examines the role of stakeholders’ knowledge in achieving sustainable development
goals (SDGs). For this purpose, both primary data in the form of interviews conducted on five
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) managers of Multinational Companies (MNCs) and
secondary data is used. The dissertation is divided into six major chapters. The literature review
found that the knowledge of stakeholder along with the notion of corporate sustainability is
important in facilitating overall sustainability in the long run.
There are also issues related to the stakeholder theory in the form of stakeholders having
different needs and perspectives that might affect the sustainability process. However, the focus
should be more on developing the sustainable goals along with communicating the same to the
stakeholders. This can be further strengthened by using the stakeholder knowledge to address
corporate sustainability along with working towards achieving the common idea of sustainability.
The findings based on interviews revealed that the notion of sustainability had gained awareness
and recognition in different companies.
Companies are even aware of the importance of stakeholders and accepted the fact that their
knowledge is important in adding value to the business processes and activities. It was further
found that regarding SDG, the usefulness of stakeholders’ knowledge has not gained clarity, as
companies are not aware of using them efficiently. The discussion found that stakeholders’
knowledge is quite important in adding the element of sustainability but might not be fully related
to the formulation and implementation of SDG.
This is mainly because of the conflict of interest among stakeholders. Also, the knowledge of all
stakeholders might not be useful, as only selected stakeholders with relevant knowledge can be
assumed as important in seeking their suggestions and advice.
Finally, it was concluded that the role of stakeholders knowledge is immense in achieving
sustainable development goals but is also marred by a number of challenges and issues mainly related to cooperation and coordination. It is important to create an environment where
stakeholders are aware of their contribution and are motivated enough to support the sustainable
development goals.
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