The Mediating Effects of Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure on the Relationship Between Corporate Governance, Ownership Structure, and Financial Performance in the MENA Region

This study investigates the role of corporate social responsibility disclosure (CSRD) in the interactions among corporate governance mechanisms, ownership structure, and financial performance in publicly listed firms within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Analysing data from 355 firm-year observations across three MENA countries, the researchers employ various statistical methods to uncover direct and indirect effects. Findings show that CSRD positively impacts financial performance, with board size also having a significant positive effect, while board independence is less effective in this context. Managerial and institutional ownership relate to financial performance significantly, whereas family ownership's effects vary. Additionally, CSRD mediates the relationships involving board size, ownership structures, and financial performance but not board independence. The study emphasises that corporate governance effectiveness in MENA largely relies on CSR disclosure practices; it advocates for improved CSR reporting frameworks to enhance transparency and firm value.