Work

Chinese-Led Energy Projects in the Western Balkans: Where Do CSR and Human Rights Fit In?

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Despite China’s regulatory and policy efforts to enhance sustainability, Chinese constructors and financiers face criticism for alleged neglect of human rights and corporate social responsibility in Western Balkans infrastructure and industrial projects. This article investigates approaches to human rights and corporate social responsibility in three Chinese-led coal projects—Kostolac B3, Kolubara B, and Tuzla 7—in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Using discourse analysis and semi-structured interviews, it examines public narratives and insider perspectives. The findings highlight key patterns among Chinese actors and provide recommendations for addressing sustainability gaps in Chinese industrial and infrastructure projects in the region.

Source: Journal of East-West Business

DOI: 10.1080/10669868.2025.2569830

Author: Stanislav Gubenko

Institution: University of Luxembourg

Language: English

Topic: Corporate Law and Human Rights

Subfield: Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Université du Luxembourg