International approaches to non-financial reporting and ESG practices: bibliometric and content analysis

Research Objective. The purpose of this study is to analyze the experience of implementing ESG principles in developing countries and to examine the role of non-financial information in corporate reporting and its impact on investment attractiveness. ESG principles allow assessing not only the economic efficiency of companies but also their contribution to social responsibility and environmental safety. Nowadays, ESG requirements have become an important tool for ensuring transparency in accordance with international standards and for achieving the goals of sustainable development. Therefore, this research focuses on the disclosure of nonfinancial information by Kazakhstani public organizations.

Research Methodology. The study is based on content and comparative analysis. Bibliometric methods were applied within the content analysis, and the VOSviewer software was used to visualize relationships between keywords, authors, and publications. This made it possible to identify trends in publication activity, distinguish thematic clusters, and highlight authors contributing to the study of ESG practices and non-financial reporting in the context of developing countries. In addition, the non-financial reports of Kazakhstan Petrochemical Industries, Jusan Bank, KazMunayGas, Development Bank of Kazakhstan, and Eurasian Resources Group were analyzed.

Originality/Value of the Study. The scientific base has been enriched by a comprehensive assessment of the impact of ESG principles on the financial stability, investment attractiveness, and reputation of companies in developing countries. The study also contributes to the systematization of scientific publications by clusters and encourages the management of Kazakhstani organizations to pay greater attention to compliance with ESG requirements in their corporate reports.

Research Findings. The study found that the introduction of ESG principles enhances companies’ long-term competitiveness, facilitates international cooperation, and reduces reputational risks. The results emphasize the importance of non-financial information for the socio-economic development of developing countries and can serve as a foundation for designing effective corporate strategies.

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