The "Ubuntu philosophy"is based on the principle of "I am because we are" or "I am because you are", which means that our existence and meaning as human beings is given to the extent that we relate to, recognize and validate the other in his or her particularity, as a legitimate and not as an inferior.
In the business environment, Ubuntu proposes collaboration, inclusion and equity as fundamental principles. This helps transform human relationships within the organization, and between the organization and the communities in which it operates.
What are the main characteristics of the Ubuntu philosophy?
In a world where companies are struggling to balance business objectives with social responsibility, the Ubuntu philosophy offers both a solution and a great opportunity to revitalize their management.
To do so, they must focus on a series of aspects, such as those detailed below:
- Interconnectedness and collaboration. Recognizing the interdependence between companies and communities, fostering collaboration and shared responsibility.
- Recognition of dignity, equity and justice. It implies treating communities with respect, recognizing their needs and their vision of themselves and their future. It means recognizing communities as legitimate subjects of rights.
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Through social responsibility strategies that seek to achieve a positive impact on both the community and the environment.l strategies that seek to achieve a positive impact on both the community and the environment.
- Collaboration and participation. It consists of involving communities in decision making, considering their perspectives on projects and operations.
- Empowering communities. Providing tools and resources to communities to improve their quality of life and economic development.
Insight Social's actions for respectful and sustainable social management
At InSight Social we believe that the relationship between companies and communities should be based on the principle of equitywith a focus on legitimizing the other as an agent of their rights and aspirations. It is here where the former play a fundamental role in helping communities to achieve their objectives by empowering them to exercise their rights. empowering them to exercise their rights.
Communities of practice: an example of how to apply the Ubuntu philosophy
A concrete example of how we apply the Ubuntu philosophy to business management, in partnership with Synergy, are the communities of practice at Glencore's Zinc operations in Peru and Canada. communities of practice at Glencore's Zinc operations in Peru and Canada.
These communities bring together management and social responsibility teams from both countries, focusing on a fundamental theme: the human rights: what they are, how to manage them, and how to implement them.
Actions are based on recognizing the dignity of each individual and the power differential between companies and communities. The aim is to empower communities to exercise their rights in all areas, and this initiative has sensitized managers to the importance of equality and human rights in business decision-making.
Thus, managers have become aware of the importance of including a human rights and equality perspective in business decision-making processes.
Ubuntu philosophy as a basis for building equitable relationships between companies and communities
By adopting the Ubuntu philosophy in business, we embark on a journey towards more ethical, equitable and sustainable management. The challenges we face are an opportunity to grow and improve, building strong relationships with the communities in which we operate.
At Insight Social our mission is clear: to establish relationships of trust, respect and collaboration. All stakeholders are recognized as legitimate and have a voice in the decisions that affect them.
With this philosophy as our guide, we can forge a future where businesses thrive alongside communities, and where everyone is recognized as legitimate subjects with rights and dignity. Let's talk!
