Since November 2024, 40pc of organisations have eliminated or plan to eliminate DEI strategies completely, with half of them removing initiatives like employee pronouns in email signatures.
Consulting firm Expleo surveyed 200 business in Ireland who have over 250 employees, and found that close to half of their employees (47pc) are worried about these policies becoming less important in Ireland, following in the footsteps of the US.
Close to half of the companies who have operations in the US said they were adjusting any references to DEI that may complicate their work there, after Donald Trump’s regime called for a rollback of such policies.
The survey found these large companies are divided on how to address DEI. Close to half are increasing their commitment to it, while 42pc believe there is “too much focus” placed on it
It found that DEI has a “profound” impact on businesses in Ireland in light of new global trends – and that uncertainty is affecting employees.
Phil Codd, managing director for Expleo in Ireland, said DEI is under attack in businesses around the world.
“Committing to DEI is not easy. Shortcomings on targets can be demoralising and subject to board scrutiny. But if we abandon targets, we effectively stop holding ourselves to account,” he said.
Diversity can bring tangible value to organisations
“However, we do have reason to be optimistic. A significant proportion of enterprise leaders said they are increasing their commitment to DEI in Ireland. These are the businesses who are going against the grain and making choices that are not only principled, but commercially smart.
“In doing so, they are positioning themselves as leaders capable of attracting top talent, in an employee market where DEI matters more than ever.”
Mr Codd also added that maintaining DEI policies could be important, especially for Ireland’s tech companies.
“It is fundamental to the innovation we bring to our clients and our own revenue growth as a challenger in the IT services space in Ireland,” he said.
“By enriching our workforces, diversity can bring tangible value to organisations by widening perspectives and challenging accepted norms. It is time for companies to boldly go forward and embrace DEI at a time when it is under attack.”
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