Comparing Sustainable Development Goals Integration in Mission Statements of Eastern and Western European Business Universities
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| Title: | Comparing Sustainable Development Goals Integration in Mission Statements of Eastern and Western European Business Universities |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Katalin Ásványi, Nóra Gendur, Zsófia Nemes |
| Source: | International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education. 2026 27(5):1262-1276. |
| Availability: | Emerald Publishing Limited. Howard House, Wagon Lane, Bingley, West Yorkshire, BD16 1WA, UK. Tel: +44-1274-777700; Fax: +44-1274-785201; e-mail: emerald@emeraldinsight.com; Web site: http://www.emerald.com/insight |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 15 |
| Publication Date: | 2026 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Education Level: | Higher Education Postsecondary Education |
| Descriptors: | Sustainable Development, Position Papers, Foreign Countries, Business Schools, Geographic Regions, Objectives, Universities, Business Education |
| Geographic Terms: | Europe |
| DOI: | 10.1108/IJSHE-10-2024-0758 |
| ISSN: | 1467-6370 1758-6739 |
| Abstract: | Purpose: Advancing sustainability and fostering Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are key global challenges. Higher education, especially through university mission statements, plays a critical role in addressing these issues. The purpose of this study is to analyze the most important regional differences and/or similarities between the emphases of mission statements of Western and Eastern European universities in relation to the SDGs. Design/methodology/approach: This paper compares the SDG-related content of mission statements from 100 business universities in Eastern and Western Europe using content analysis. Findings: Both regions emphasize social sustainability, particularly Goal 4 (Quality education). However, Eastern European universities focus more on regional development and workforce training, while Western European institutions prioritize societal development and economic goals (Goals 8 and 9). Eastern Europe also highlights cooperation (Goal 17), while Western Europe shows slightly more attention to environmental sustainability (Goal 13). The findings underscore the need for higher education institutions to enhance their mission statements to better reflect sustainability goals, serving as both indicators and motivators for institutional practices. Originality/value: This study is unique in its comparative analysis of these two European regions. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2026 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1506591 |
| Database: | ERIC |
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