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The state of HRM in the Middle East: Challenges and future research agenda

Author

Listed:
  • Pawan Budhwar

    (Aston Business School)

  • Vijay Pereira

    (Wollongong Business School
    University of Portsmouth)

  • Kamel Mellahi

    (Warwick Business School)

  • Sanjay Kumar Singh

    (Abu Dhabi University)

Abstract

Based on a robust structured literature analysis, this paper highlights the key developments in the field of human resource management (HRM) in the Middle East. Utilizing the institutional perspective, the analysis contributes to the literature on HRM in the Middle East by focusing on four key themes. First, it highlights the topical need to analyze the context-specific nature of HRM in the region. Second, via the adoption of a systematic review, it highlights state of development in HRM in the research analysis set-up. Third, the analysis also helps to reveal the challenges facing the HRM function in the Middle East. Fourth, it presents an agenda for future research in the form of research directions. While doing the above, it revisits the notions of “universalistic” and “best practice” HRM (convergence) versus “best-fit” or context distinctive (divergence) and also alternate models/diffusion of HRM (crossvergence) in the Middle Eastern context. The analysis, based on the framework of cross-national HRM comparisons, helps to make both theoretical and practical implications.

Suggested Citation

  • Pawan Budhwar & Vijay Pereira & Kamel Mellahi & Sanjay Kumar Singh, 2019. "The state of HRM in the Middle East: Challenges and future research agenda," Asia Pacific Journal of Management, Springer, vol. 36(4), pages 905-933, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:asiapa:v:36:y:2019:i:4:d:10.1007_s10490-018-9587-7
    DOI: 10.1007/s10490-018-9587-7
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