A review of empirical research on corporate social responsibility in emerging economies

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic review of empirical research studies on corporate social responsibility (CSR) in emerging economies. Design/methodology/approach - This paper employed a systematic literature review using research papers published on CSR in emerging economies from 2010 to 2019. Findings - The findings of this paper show that the principal themes of published research articles on CSR in emerging economies are (1) effects of CSR, (2) drivers of CSR and (3) challenges of CSR. Additionally, publications on CSR in emerging economies have been dominated by studies that used quantitative approach and cross-sectional design. A significant number of studies also employed secondary data sources with most of these studies not being sensitive to sectoral influences Research limitations/implications - The research is non-empirical. Practical implications - CSR is an area that can mitigate some of the developmental challenges of emerging economies and also stimulate the economic growth of firms. Thus, governments and organisations must partner to provide suitable conditions that would influence organisations to incorporate CSR in their business plans. Originality/value - This review is the first of its kind that identifies the principal thematic domains of research on CSR in emerging economies. This review also provides proof of the areas of research that need attention and also provides recommendation on future areas of study on CSR in emerging economies.