The book is the collation of presentations from an International Labour Organisation (ILO) conference held in 2019. It brings together perspectives on varying elements of diversity and the role it plays in the world of work for the future.
It explores from a research / evidential position issues such as:
- Interventions to create a more inclusive labour market
- Blatant and microaggressions that impede diversity
- Cultural changes outside the labour market and within businesses that could make a difference
- Diversity within diversity, considering the implications of labelling
- LGBTI+
- age
Content
The book is divided into fifteen chapters in four parts:
- diversity management and the economic case for diversity
- the illusion of equality – inclusive structures are needed
- discrimination and violence that impede diversity
- exclusion by design and how to overcome it
Each chapter stands alone and could be read in isolation and although some chapters are of more direct value to human resource or national policy developers, they all provide more than enough translatable concepts for OSH practitioners.
Evaluation
Taking a quote from one chapter, to explain the value in reading this publication:
'Diversity determines how we see the world. An individual’s definition of diversity serves as a reference point for further reflection. It encompasses and influences attitudes in professional and private life.'
Its structure of short chapters on such a variety of elements within diversity makes it the type of book that can be ‘dipped into’ and revisited. This reader found reading it as an eBook – not their usual preferred mechanism for reading – resulted in prolific use of highlights and commentary boxes and therefore a higher level of engagement than may have resulted from a ‘paper’ book.
It would be suitable for OSH professionals across a range of experience, those new to considering how OSH practice should influence and support equality and diversity, as well as those with a deeper understanding and experience of applying and creating inclusive systems and practices. To that end each reader will be left with different reflections, and reflect we should if we are to advice and support our organisations who:
'...find it difficult to know the factors that contribute to effective diversity management or the kind of leadership required to effectively and efficiently deal with issues related to workplace diversity.'
The Future of Diversity is a rich source of inspiration for anyone wishing to reflect on equality, diversity and inclusion within their occupational safety and health practice.
