The impact of uncertainty-fear against COVID-19 on corporate social responsibility and labor practices issues

Purpose The research aims to profoundly investigate the correlation between uncertainty-fear against COVID-19, corporate social responsibility (CSR) and labor practices issues based on ISO 26000. Design/methodology/approach Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was adopted for data analysis and hypotheses testing on a sample of 304 managers and employees in the Egyptian small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Findings Preliminary results indicate that the uncertainty-fear against COVID-19 positively affects CSR practices in SMEs. CSR positively impacts labor practices dimensions. However, CSR has an insignificant effect on the social protection and work condition dimension. Also, CSR has a significant mediating role in the association between uncertainty-fear toward the pandemic and labor practices. But, this relation is insignificant regarding social protection and work condition dimension. Practical implications Managers could develop a consistent strategy for applying CSR practices, providing clear information and focusing on their procedures to protect their workforce during COVID-19. Governments should impose policies to guarantee that all employees have the same opportunities and not discriminate directly or indirectly in any labor practice. Originality/value Based on both the "stakeholder" and "social-cognitive" theories, this study shed light on the optimistic side of the COVID-19 pandemic, as it also brings the concepts of social responsibility, sustainability and green practices back into the light, which helps in solving labor issues.