Translating the 2030 Agenda into reality through stakeholder engagement

Abstract

AbstractThis paper analyses the current state and the dynamic evolution of corporate transparency practices in relation to the 2030 Agenda in the context of stakeholder engagement. Considering six key stakeholder groups and 53 information items related to business actions aligned with the 2030 Agenda, data from 5908 companies worldwide corresponding to the period 2015–2019 are analysed by using X‐STATIS to identify which stakeholder groups have a meaningful role in fostering business contribution to the 2030 Agenda. The results show a low level of corporate transparency in relation to business contribution to the 2030 Agenda. Companies are mainly focused on transparency practices aimed at investors and shareholders. Conversely, customers and the environment are the less considered stakeholder groups. European countries are the leaders in this regard, whereas countries such as the United Arab Emirates and Qatar present the worst records in corporate transparency regarding the 2030 Agenda. The findings have a practical value by providing a picture of how companies use Sustainable Development Goal reporting to optimise relationships with key stakeholders.