CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN THE ROMANIAN BANKING SECTOR

This paper explores the evolution and strategic role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) within the Romanian banking sector from 2003 to 2016, focusing on two leading banks: BCR and BRD. As financial institutions in Romania navigated post-crisis recovery and EU regulatory alignment, CSR emerged as a key instrument for building trust, fostering stakeholder engagement, and aligning with broader social and environmental goals. The study outlines CSR development stages and theoretical frameworks, emphasizing the shift from symbolic to substantive engagement. Through a comparative case study of BCR and BRD, the paper reveals distinct CSR trajectories: BCR’s activities peaked during 2008–2010 with community outreach, financial education, and NGO collaboration, while BRD maintained a consistent focus on cultural, educational, and environmental initiatives. CSR strategies varied in response to organizational priorities, stakeholder expectations, and macroeconomic pressures. The findings suggest that CSR in Romanian banking has transitioned from peripheral initiatives to integrated strategic priorities. This evolution reflects a broader trend toward sustainable finance and ethical banking practices, underscoring the relevance of CSR for risk management and long-term value creation. Ultimately, CSR is becoming not only a reputational asset but a structural component of responsible banking in emerging economies.