The pharmaceutical industry has a unique dual role within society in that the companies within the industry develop and distribute health care products in a for-profit manner.
Safety and ethical concerns have resulted in an industry that is one of the most highly regulated globally. Controversies have developed around perceived conflicts of interest
emerging from this dual role due to the industry’s size, influence, and primary responsibility to society as a developer and provider of innovative medicines. While public awareness of these controversies has grown, so have global concerns regarding the financial, social, and medical health of individuals. Even as the industry faces persistent and increasing criticism for improperly managing the social responsibilities attributed to its dual role, the industry has increasingly engaged in CSR activities.
Presently, companies in the pharmaceutical industry are under pressure to be even more comprehensive and strategic in their approaches to CSR engagement.