River Blindness

MERCK AND RIVER BLINDNESS

1. Think about the definition of stakeholders - any parties with a stake in the organization's actions or performance. Who are the stakeholders in this situation? How many can you list? On what basis would you rank them in importance?

People suffering from the disease or those who potentially may be infected - would directly benefit from the cure

Merck employees at all levels - profitability and the economic health of the company affects current employees

Merck shareholders - inability to profit from the drug might have a negative effect on shareholder's value, but taking the stand on "doing the right thing" might have a favorable effect on company's reputation and increase the value of the stock

Various healthcare organizations - Merck is one of...