Global perspectives on Strategic Human Resource Management challenges and innovations? A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

This systematic literature review examines the global development of Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM) in response to emerging organizational, technological, and institutional challenges. Following the PRISMA framework, the study systematically reviewed and analyzed 33 peer-reviewed articles published between 2020 and 2025, selected from Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, from an initial pool of 2,773 records. The selected studies were synthesized using thematic and comparative content analysis, which identified recurring patterns, key challenges, and emerging innovations in SHRM across various national contexts. The results show that cross-cultural complexity and regulatory fragmentation are the most significant challenges, followed by talent shortages, ethical risks related to artificial intelligence in HR decision-making, and institutional inconsistencies across regions. In response, leading innovations ranked by prevalence and impact include the use of artificial intelligence in HR analytics, the implementation of agile HR practices, the strategic integration of sustainability principles, and adaptations to gig-economy employment models. The review also highlights notable differences in the adoption and effectiveness of SHRM practices between developed and developing economies, emphasizing the importance of context-specific strategies. Based on these findings, the study points to key areas for future research and practice, such as developing comprehensive AI ethics frameworks, conducting longitudinal and cross-cultural SHRM studies, and exploring decentralized, digitally-enabled HR models. Overall, the review compiles current evidence to promote a more adaptable, ethically grounded, and globally responsive SHRM approach.