Social Dimension of ESG: Determinants of Corporate Social Responsibility for the Inclusion of Disadvantaged Populations

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines the Social Dimension of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) by identifying which Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) actions effectively target disadvantaged individuals. It aims to determine the organizational, financial, and strategic factors that increase the likelihood of companies incorporating vulnerable groups into their social initiatives. Design/methodology/approach: The research applies an exploratory, quantitative design using a structured questionnaire administered to 48 Human Resources and ESG managers. Descriptive statistics, Cronbach’s alpha, ANOVA, and the Friedman test were used to validate the instrument. Binary logistic regression served as the core analytical technique, enabling the estimation of the probability that firms direct social actions toward disadvantaged populations. Findings: Results show that the duration of social programs is the strongest predictor of inclusion, followed by financial investment specifically allocated to disadvantaged groups. Conversely, generalist anti-hunger actions exhibit a negative association with inclusion, suggesting diluted effectiveness. Perceptual variables regarding ESG importance showed no statistical significance. Model robustness was supported by R²=0.664. Research limitations/implications: The limited and region-specific sample restricts generalization. Future research should include broader sectors and mixed methods to deepen understanding of firm-level decision-making in ESG. Practical implications: Findings highlight the need for continuous, well-funded, and strategically segmented programs to enhance the effectiveness of corporate social initiatives. Social implications: Strengthening long-term investments and targeted interventions can improve corporate contributions to social equity and reduce structural vulnerability. Originality/value: The study advances ESG literature by empirically demonstrating which factors most influence firms’ inclusion of disadvantaged groups, offering quantitative evidence for improving CSR effectiveness.