Corporate Social Responsibility for Banks in Cameroon—Which Governance Model?

Abstract

Since the 1990s bank reforms, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has continued receiving many meanings. Currently, it is one of the major concerns for banks looking out for competitiveness in their business sector, for which banks seek to play a key role in society, proclaiming their citizenship. As financial institutions, they are aware of how important it is to maintain long-term relationships with stakeholders. However, the variety of reflections upon this issue makes it difficult to uphold a universal logic among banks. This article’s objective is to examine the suitable governance model that can foster social responsibility in bank milieu in Cameroon. Empirical studies were conducted using the triangulation method characterised by desk review and semi-directive interviews with managers and clients from nine (09) banks. The results demonstrate that the necessary and suitable governance model that can foster banks’ Corporate Social Responsibility takes into account endogenous and exogenous aspects integrating economic, social and environmental dimensions.