THE ROLE OF THE AUDITOR IN NON-FINANCIAL REPORTING, A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF TWO COMPANIES OMV PETROM AND LUKOIL FOR THE YEAR 2023 IN TERMS OF SUSTAINABILITY REPORTS

Abstract

This study analyzes the role of the financial auditor in non-financial reporting by examining the 2023 sustainability reports of two major companies, Lukoil and OMV Petrom. The research is structured into two main parts: a theoretical framework and a comparative case study of the selected companies. The theoretical section outlines the objectives of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), which aims to enhance the quality, consistency, and transparency of sustainability disclosures. It also situates CSRD within the broader context of the European Green Deal and the transition toward sustainable corporate practices, particularly in high-impact industries such as oil and gas. The empirical analysis is based on a qualitative comparative review of the sustainability reports of the two companies, focusing on ESG disclosure practices and audit assurance mechanisms. The findings highlight the increasing importance of audit assurance in strengthening stakeholder confidence, improving the credibility of ESG disclosures, and supporting corporate transparency in industries with significant environmental and social impact. The study also identifies ongoing challenges in the implementation of sustainability reporting standards and emphasizes the expanding role of auditors under the evolving European regulatory framework. JEL Classification: M42, M49 Article History: Received: January 29, 2026; Reviewed: July 31, 2026; Accepted: September 10, 2026; Available online: September 23, 2026.