Sustainability Disclosure and Corporate Corruption From Stakeholder Perspectives: A Review, Integrated Insights, and Future Directions

Abstract

Corporate corruption and fraud continue to pose a serious challenge to ESG performance and reporting. This literature review systematically examines and discusses what is known about the relationship between ESG and corruption risks. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we reviewed 87 articles published in the Scopus and Web of Science databases. Our analysis groups the findings into three themes: (1) corporate fraud risk management and ethics disclosure, (2) political connections and corporate performance, and (3) organizational culture, leadership, and corruption. Furthermore, to support organizations in mitigating ESG‐related corruption risks, we propose two frameworks drawing on the COSO ERM framework and aligned with international sustainability standards. In addition, an integrative framework highlights the pivotal role of internal auditing in strengthening ESG assurance and corruption prevention based on the Plan‐Do‐Check‐Act cycle. This study offers actionable insights for researchers and practitioners seeking to improve ESG practices and curb corruption.