Integrated reporting in the public sector: an exploratory analysis of public value disclosure

Purpose This research investigates whether and how Integrated Reporting (IR) represents a useful approach for public sector organizations to communicate and emphasize public value, supporting its disclosure. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative content analysis was conducted on exemplary integrated reports from public sector organizations recognized by the International Integrated Reporting Council (IIRC) as leading practices. The analysis specifically examined the explicit disclosure of public value within these reports by developing a framework of analysis built on five variables (volume, type, perspective, tone and completeness). Findings The study reveals a notable absence of explicit definitions for public value, which subsequently challenges its effective measurement and accountability. To enhance reporting practices, public sector organizations should conceptualize the specific public value they deliver, taking into account their unique organizational characteristics. This conceptualization should encompass stakeholder engagement, an assessment of interdependencies among various capitals, the procedural aspects of value creation, forward-looking elements, and both value creation and destruction. Practical implications The improvement of IR through a stronger and explicit consideration of the public value dimension can strengthen public value creation and disclosure, improve accountability and transparency, and increase stakeholder satisfaction. Originality/value This study contributes to the discourse on IR in the public sector by exploring its capacity to support public value disclosure, an underexplored area within the existing literature.