Does CSR committee presence, stakeholder engagement, gender equality (SDG 5) and firm value influence ESG performance reporting? An EU pre and during Covid-19 analysis

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to analyse the corporate social responsibility (CSR) Committee presence and gender equality influence on environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance reporting in a pre- and during Covid-19 crisis in European Union (EU) listed entities. Design/methodology/approach To achieve the goal, an empirical analysis was conducted with 1,221 listed companies in EU as support for the economics years 2017–2021. Statistical technique used to analyse the relationship between the variables under study was regression analysis with panel data. Findings Results show that CSR committee presence, stakeholder engagement and gender equality are positively associated with ESG performance reporting, but the Covid-19 crisis and the book value per share do not influence the dependent variable. The model variables determine 99% of the ESG performance reporting. Practical implications The results are useful for managers, governments and organizations in developing sustainability reporting standards. As companies navigate the complex landscape of sustainability challenges, integrating sustainable development goals into their strategies and ESG reports provides a roadmap for creating positive, lasting impacts on a global scale. Originality/value This research covers listed firms from throughout the EU and the pre- and during-Covid era.