An Evaluation of the Concept of Green Transformational Leadership in BRICS+ Countries: evidence from existing studies

Green transformational leadership (GTL) integrates environmental sustainability into the core principles of transformational leadership idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration offering a framework to address climate change and foster sustainable development in BRICS+ countries. Comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, BRICS+countries represent 36% of global GDP and 45% of the world’s population, aiming to challenge Western-dominated governance and promote a multipolar order. Despite its potential, green transformational leadership (GTL) application in BRICS+countries is underexplored, with limited research addressing its impact on sustainable organizational outcomes across diverse cultural and economic contexts. Existing studies often apply Western frameworks, overlooking BRICS+'s unique socio-political dynamics. This study examines green transformational leadership's (GTL) role in promoting green organizational culture, innovation, and employee behaviours during economic transitions, using a systematic literature review of policy documents and academic literature. It highlights green transformational leadership (GTL)'s alignment with BRICS+'s goals of economic growth, geopolitical influence, and environmental responsibility while addressing challenges like political instability, fossil fuel reliance, and resource constraints. Institutional theory underscores green transformational leadership (GTL)’s adaptability to coercive, normative, and mimetic pressures, yet varying developmental stages and national priorities create implementation disparities. Findings suggest green transformational leadership (GTL) can drive sustainability through tailored strategies, policy stability, and BRICS+ collaboration, positioning these nations as leaders in global climate governance.