The role of HRD in CSR and sustainability: a content analysis of corporate responsibility reports
European Journal of Training and Development
ISSN: 2046-9012
Article publication date: 24 April 2020
Issue publication date: 24 August 2020
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine the role of human resource development (HRD) in corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability initiatives of multinational companies (MNCs).
Design/methodology/approach
The authors analyze contents of corporate responsibility (CR) reports disclosed by 23 MNCs from Europe, Asia and North America to examine HRD’s contribution to CSR and sustainability, with particular attention to long-term human development and organization development.
Findings
The analysis of CR reports indicates that HRD is perceived as playing a role in the following areas: diversity, equity and inclusion; community engagement; work–life balance; employee long-term growth and development; performance management; business ethics and ethical culture; and raising CSR awareness. In all areas, HRD was identified as playing a significant role in supporting companies’ CSR agendas.
Originality/value
This study extends research on the intersection of HR, CSR and sustainability and provides evidence of HRD’s important contributions to CSR and sustainability.
Keywords
Citation
Jang, S. and Ardichvili, A. (2020), "The role of HRD in CSR and sustainability: a content analysis of corporate responsibility reports", European Journal of Training and Development, Vol. 44 No. 6/7, pp. 549-573. https://doi.org/10.1108/EJTD-01-2020-0006
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited