Six definite commitments

The Charter of Diversity addresses six key areas and thus provides a framework for organizations to initiate or enhance their diversity activities.

1. Corporate culture – policies and management responsibilities

2. Human resource processes – reviewing the processes for equal opportunity

3. Diversity and representation – recognizing diversity and representation

4. Communication – diversity as an integral part of corporate communications

5. Sustainability – in terms of performance measurement and progress

6. Workforce inclusion – including all partners and stakeholders

Many companies have already moved forward on one or more of these items. For example, shop agreements were drafted on immigration, disabilities and anti-harassment and anti-discrimination practices, or activities were launched for women and men, work-life balance or mixed-age workforces.

Each organization must decide for itself what activities to develop, what priorities to set, and what to do first based on its business strategy, business environment and current corporate culture.

Many corporations have initiated diversity management programs. Small and medium-sized enterprises, however, have found other ways to address issues of diversity and respect for difference and have developed good practices.

Good practices will be exchanged at round table workshops that are scheduled in connection with the official signing dates.

More on implementation (in German)