Effect of Female Representation on Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure: International Analysis of the Energy Sector

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the effect of female representation on the dissemination of corporate social responsibility in international companies in the energy sector.

Method: The sample is made up of 62 multinationals in the energy sector based in 25 countries. The dependent variable is socio-environmental disclosure and the independent variables used are: female participation in the board of directors, law or code in the country on gender diversity and return on equity. The research analyzed 3 years: 2016 to 2018.

Main results: The results indicate that there is a positive influence of the greater number of women present in the council and also point out that their presence can form a “critical mass”, in which they feel comfortable to give their opinion and influence decision-making. It is concluded that the diversity of backgrounds between men and women helps companies to report more complete environmental reports.

Relevance/originality: The study presents new evidence about the effect of female diversity on corporate sustainability, analyzing the energy sector in different institutional environments. In addition, the research analyzes the results in the light of the Critical Mass Theory, bringing a new direction for studies on CSR.

Theoretical/methodological contributions: The results are analyzed through the Critical Mass Theory, a socio-political theory still little related to corporate sustainability. The results can assist managers in the elaboration of their corporate strategies, highlighting the role of gender diversity in the councils.