Internet-Based Social Reporting in Emerging Economies: Insights from Public Banks in Egypt and the UAE

Abstract

This chapter examines how public banks operating in Egypt and the UAE respond to stakeholders' needs. It uses content analysis to explore the volume, nature, and quality of social information presented on the websites of these banks and the way in which these banks use web technology to report such information. The results indicate that public banks in both countries made more disclosures about corporate social responsibility (CSR) and community issues. Nevertheless, they lag behind stakeholders' expectations in regard to information about employees and cultural issues. Furthermore, the UAE banks tend to offer better stakeholders access to social information than Egyptian banks. However, both have a long way to go in better facilitating interaction with stakeholders. There is evidence to suggest that social reporting by public banks' in both countries is still below the expectations of the Muslim and global communities.