Created in 1998, under impetus from SUEZ, the Observatoire Social International (OSI - international observatory of social challenges) arose from the desire to go beyond the imperatives of economics and finance in addressing the social challenges of globalization.
An instrument for the observation and analysis of the international social situation, the OSI contributes to the integration of human and social issues by making concrete proposals. OSI now has over 100 partners throughout the world, people from business but also academics, politicians, labor union federations, and non-governmental organizations (NGO).
The OSI is active throughout the world, leading and sharing thinking, and developing pilot social experiences that respect cultural diversity -especially via its four delegations in Argentina, Europe, Morocco and USA. The Observatoire is developing expertise in practical areas such as social performance indicators, the European economic model, and life long training and education. It is also building partnerships in the field to fight marginalization, poverty and illiteracy, and to foster integration of informal sectors of the economy.
In 2004, OSI focused on three major issues: consolidation of an enlarged social Europe around the question of education and training; social risks with which businesses are increasingly being confronted; and the integration of social issues into business strategies.
The OSI has organized three symposiums since its creation, the third being held at the European Parliament, in Brussels, in March 2004. These events provide an exceptional forum for social debate and dialogue for all stakeholders.
