Promise of Prosperity in a Conflicted Community: A Local National Employee's Experience Working for a Foreign Multinational Company

Abstract

This case takes the point of view of a local, native supervisor in a foreign-owned mining company. It looks at how a new job with the mining company brings Segundo Leon Riojas' family unprecedented prosperity and well-being. It also explores the tensions that the job creates between him, his extended family, and his community. Segundo finds that he is unprepared for the complexities of his changing socio-economic status, cross-cultural relationships, and conflict in his community. This case raises important questions about the ripple effect foreign companies have on a local community and to what extent they have social responsibilities beyond the fair treatment of workers and environmental protection. Ultimately, this case takes discussion of corporate social responsibility a step further to consider a business' obligations and contributions to peace and prosperity in the societies where they operate.