REVIEWING THE ROLE OF ETHICAL LEADERSHIP IN CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR) INITIATIVES: A COMPARATIVE STUDY

Abstract

This study explores the role of ethical leadership in shaping the effectiveness of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives across various sectors in India. By conducting a comparative analysis between organizations led by ethical leaders and those led by non-ethical leaders, the research examines how leadership styles influence CSR decision-making, employee engagement, stakeholder collaboration, and overall CSR performance. The study employs a qualitative research design, gathering data through in-depth interviews with senior CSR managers from 15 companies across different industries. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes and patterns in CSR practices and outcomes. The findings reveal that organizations led by ethical leaders exhibit higher involvement in CSR decision-making, greater integration of ethical considerations into CSR strategies, and better social and environmental outcomes compared to organizations led by non-ethical leaders. Ethical leadership also promotes higher employee engagement and proactive stakeholder collaboration, resulting in more successful CSR initiatives. The study highlights the importance of ethical leadership in fostering a socially responsible corporate culture and contributing to long-term sustainability. These insights provide practical implications for organizations seeking to enhance their CSR strategies and emphasize the need for leadership development programs focused on ethics.