What best describes a mission statement?

A mission statement serves as a foundational description of an organization's purpose and primary objectives. It outlines what the organization seeks to achieve and the core reasons for its existence. This succinctly conveys the essence of the organization to stakeholders, including employees, customers, and investors, guiding their understanding of the organization’s intentions and aspirations.

In contrast, a summary of annual performance metrics primarily focuses on quantifiable outcomes of the organization's activities over a specific time period, which does not encapsulate its broader purpose. A detailed report on financial objectives delves into financial strategies and benchmarks, rather than articulating the overall mission of the organization. Lastly, a declaration of corporate social responsibility outlines the ethical commitments and social contributions of the organization, which, while important, is a more specific aspect of the broader mission and does not comprehensively define the organization's overall purpose.