Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Global HR and Its Effect on Sri Lankan Organizations

By Rusky Ahamed

Introduction

DEI in HRM is crucial for fostering diverse work environments, boosting creativity, innovation, and performance. It encompasses diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring fair treatment, eradicating discrimination and fostering a sense of belonging among individuals (Ausaf & Khan, 2023). This blog post will discuss the importance of DEI in global HR and its impact on Sri Lankan organizations.

 Figure 1: DEI in Global HR
(Soutar, 2022)

Understanding Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Diversity encompasses various differences among people, including race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, and physical capabilities. Equity ensures fair treatment and eliminates discrimination, while inclusion fosters a sense of belonging by valuing and empowering diverse viewpoints and skills, promoting an equal opportunity for success (Ausaf & Khan, 2023).

(TEDx Talks , 2023)

 Figure 2: DEI Graphic
(SJOYNES, 2021)

The Importance of DEI in Global HR

In global HR, diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI) are essential for developing a culture that celebrates diversity of thought and encourages creativity. DEI techniques boost organizational dynamism by fostering a sense of intersectionality and belonging (Ayoko & Fujimoto, 2023).

Figure 3: New Tech Investment
(JazzHR, 2023)

The Impact on Sri Lankan Organizations

According to Economynext (2023) Sri Lankan organizations have started to embrace DEI principles, with companies like Ceylon Tobacco Company (CTC) leading the way CTC has achieved a 50:50 gender split in its leadership team, demonstrating its commitment to gender diversity. Additionally, the company has set a target of achieving 40% representation of women in management roles by 2025, highlighting its dedication to promoting gender equality.

AIA Insurance, Sri Lanka's Most Respected Insurer, has achieved the EDGE Assess certification, demonstrating its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. With 44% of employees and sales force women, AIA is bridging the gender gap (Newswire, 2024).

John Keells Group, Sri Lanka's largest conglomerate, is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly in empowering women, increasing female workforce participation, and challenging societal norms(Economynext, 2024).

According to IFC (2020) Sri Lanka's ranking in the Global Gender Gap Report has declined over the past 14 years, from 13th to 102th out of 153 countries. Despite high scores in health and education, the gender gap between men and women's economic and political participation has widened. However, increasing women's participation could potentially raise Sri Lanka's GDP by up to 20%.

Over 50 Sri Lankan firms have benefited from IFC's 'Together We Can' partnership, promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace, including training sessions for women in leadership and non-traditional roles (DailyFT, 2023).

Figure 4: CTC - Advancing Beyond Diversity
(Economynext, 2023)

Challenges and Opportunities

Sri Lankan organizations face challenges in implementing DEI due to slow societal changes on issues like homosexuality and gender identity (Economynext, 2023). However, these challenges also present opportunities for organizations to address unconscious biases and nurture a sense of belongingness among team members (Economynext, 2023).

Conclusion

DEI is a key component in global HR strategies, attracting and retaining diverse talent, promoting a positive work environment, and enhancing business performance. Sri Lankan organizations are embracing DEI principles to foster a more productive workforce.

References

  • Ausaf , A. & Khan, N. . A., 2023. EXPLORING DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION (DEI) IN THE CONTEXT OF HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT. ANVESHAK-International Journal of Management, Volume 53.

  • Ayoko, O. B. & Fujimoto, Y., 2023. Diversity, Inclusion, and Human Resource Management: A call for more belongingness and intersectionality research. ournal of Management & Organization, 29(6), pp. 983-990.

  • Economynext, 2023. Ceylon Tobacco Company: Advancing Beyond Diversity. [Online] Available at: https://economynext.com/brand_voice/ceylon-tobacco-company-advancing-beyond-diversity/ [Accessed 13 04 2024].

  • IFC, 2020. SRI LANKAN Businesses Advance GENDER EQUALITY. [Online]  Available at: https://www.ifc.org/content/dam/ifc/doc/mgrt/sri-lankan-businesses-advance-gender-equality.pdf [Accessed 13 04 2024].

  • Newswire, 2024. AIA Achieves EDGE Assess Certification, Spearheading Diversity and Inclusion in Sri Lanka’s Insurance Sector. [Online] Available at: https://www.newswire.lk/2024/01/29/aia-achieves-edge-assess-certification-spearheading-diversity-and-inclusion-in-sri-lankas-insurance-sector/ [Accessed 13 04 2024].

  • Economynext, 2024. How John Keells Group’s DE&I Vision is Changing the Corporate Landscape. [Online] Available at: https://economynext.com/brand_voice/how-john-keells-groups-dei-vision-is-changing-the-corporate-landscape/ [Accessed 13 04 2024].

  • DailyFT, 2023. Over 50 Lankan firms experience business benefits by promoting diversity, inclusion at workplace. [Online] Available at: https://www.ft.lk/hr/Over-50-Lankan-firms-experience-business-benefits-by-promoting-diversity-inclusion-at-workplace/47-749789 [Accessed 13 04 2024].

  • TEDx Talks , 2023. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. Learning how to get it right | Asif Sadiq | TEDxCroydon. [Online] Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HR4wz1b54hw [Accessed 13 04 2024].

  • Soutar, L., 2022. D&I data | Implementation of diversity initiatives falters despite rising funding. [Online] Available at: https://www.hrgrapevine.com/us/content/article/2022-11-24-implementation-of-diversity-initiatives-falters-despite-rising-funding-rates [Accessed 13 04 2024].

  • SJOYNES, 2021. What Employers Want: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Experience. [Online]  Available at: https://careercenter.hsc.edu/what-employers-want-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-experience/ [Accessed 13 04 2024].

  • JazzHR, 2023. How to Create DEI Programs in the Workplace. [Online] Available at: https://www.jazzhr.com/blog/dei-programs/ [Accessed 13 04 2024].

Comments

  1. Sakvithi SenadeeraApril 13, 2024 at 9:30 PM

    Implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices in global HR positively impacts Sri Lankan organizations. By embracing diversity, ensuring equity, and fostering inclusion, companies enhance innovation, employee engagement, and overall organizational performance in a diverse and evolving global landscape.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Chethana LiyanageApril 13, 2024 at 9:31 PM

    Absolutely agree with the sentiments expressed here! Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are no longer just tagline but essential pillars of modern HR strategies worldwide.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Amina MahmoodApril 13, 2024 at 11:44 PM

    DEI is a term used to describe policies and programmes that promote the representation and the participation of different groups of individuals.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Imalka EkanayakeApril 14, 2024 at 2:29 AM

    You have nicely explained the topic. DEI in HR fosters diverse talent, boosts workplace positivity, and enhances business performance in Sri Lanka.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Shehan PriyashanthaApril 14, 2024 at 6:11 AM

    Important aspect in all workplaces explained nicely

    ReplyDelete
  6. Ruwini DissanayakeApril 14, 2024 at 8:23 AM

    The integration of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in Human Resource Management (HRM) is a strategic imperative that significantly influences the thriving of both global businesses as well as the societal fabric within which they operate. DEI encompasses the broad spectrum of human differences and insists on a working environment where such differences are not only acknowledged but leveraged for the inclusive growth and advancement of all individuals.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Kusal SamarakoonApril 14, 2024 at 6:15 PM

    Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in HR is essential because it develops a sense of community, encourages creativity, and improves organizational performance by utilizing the full potential of different viewpoints and skill sets within international teams.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Sachini HithakshikaApril 14, 2024 at 11:40 PM

    Well described the term DEI with current examples from Sri Lanka.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Dhanushka PathiranaApril 15, 2024 at 3:35 AM

    You focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion provides a valuable insight into the dynamic and complex nature of Global HR and the role of HR in managing and developing talent in this context. Have provided a clear and comprehensive overview of the key elements of a diverse and inclusive workplace, such as recruiting diverse candidates, promoting cultural competence, and fostering open communication.

    ReplyDelete
  10. N.M.N.P. NawarathnaApril 15, 2024 at 10:48 PM

    This article provides a comprehensive overview of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in global HR, with a specific focus on its impact on Sri Lankan organizations.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Mahesh RasikaApril 16, 2024 at 11:42 AM

    Kudos for delving into the crucial topic of DEI in global HR and its relevance to Sri Lankan organizations. Your blog post serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering an inclusive workplace culture. Great job!!!

    ReplyDelete
  12. Saranga ThilakaratneApril 17, 2024 at 2:09 AM

    Impressive article. What caught my eye was how you explained that Defined Ethical (DEI) principles are being adopted by Sri Lankan organizations like Ceylon Tobacco Company, AIA Insurance, and John Keells Group, aiming to increase female workforce participation and potentially boost the country's GDP.
    Your analysis and findings are top-notch. Love your work. Thank you for sharing!

    ReplyDelete

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