Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to assess elements that affect social responsibility in supply chains and beyond. The elements are classified into drivers, facilitators and inhibitors.

Design/methodology/approach– This paper presents an assessment of supply chain management research published over the period of 2009-2013.

Findings– Sixteen elements are identified and presented in a framework along with their proposed constituents. The elements capture structures and management principles of supply chains that are important for social responsibility.

Research limitations/implications– The elements provide a basis to better understand how social responsibility in supply chains is related to contextual factors. The framework of elements is still only an initial step toward enhanced understanding of how the context affects social responsibility in supply chains.

Practical implications– The framework may guide companies to acknowledge elements that are known to improve or deteriorate social responsibility in supply chains.

Originality/value– This paper contributes to capture the state-of-the-art knowledge based upon recent research. It is also a stepping stone toward improved insights on what drives, facilitates and inhibits individuals in social responsibility.