This book examines the impact of multinational enterprises (MNEs) on local economies and
presents selected case studies of MNEs operating in low income countries. By balancing external
social and environmental costs against its corresponding benefits the book demonstrates that
MNEs can have a positive net-impact on local development if they build up social capital by
embedding themselves in local economies and engaging responsibly with local stakeholders. By
doing so MNEs contribute to inclusive growth a cental pillar of the UN Sustainable Development
Goals. In this context the book challenges popular narratives in civil society and academia
that frame foreign direct investment (FDI) merely as a threat to human rights and sustainable
development. Moreover it offers practical guidance for globally operating businesses seeking
to establish progressive Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategies of their own.
