My Take on the DEI Inclusion Toolkit

Few weeks ago, I had the privilege of attending a breakout session at the International Workplace Pride Conference in The Hague. The session was a revelation, primarily due to the introduction of the DEI Inclusion Toolkit. This comprehensive guide, designed to rectify historic inequities and establish improved practices, left an indelible impression on me.

The DEI Inclusion Toolkit is an extensive resource that offers frameworks and guidance to address historic inequities proactively while fostering better practices. Its ultimate goal is to enhance an organization’s capacity to advocate for a just and healthy world that is accessible to all.

The toolkit’s real-world application is particularly noteworthy. During the conference, it was presented as a case study involving a prestigious university in Thailand and the government of Canada. This collaboration resulted in a toolkit that is now published on the UNDP page. The toolkit was not merely used in Thailand, but rather, it was made for Thailand, demonstrating the power of cultural sensitivity in creating effective tools.

The toolkit focuses on reducing bias from recruitment processes, diversifying talent pools, and benchmarking diversity and inclusion across organizations. It also provides resources and activities for organizations on a variety of topics.

The toolkit’s practical approach is commendable. It provides concrete steps and strategies that organizations can implement, rather than discussing diversity, equity, and inclusion in abstract terms. The toolkit’s emphasis on leveraging technology as a means to reduce bias and diversify talent pools is particularly noteworthy.

This case study underscores the importance of comprehensive market research in creating effective toolkits. By understanding the specific needs and contexts of different communities, we can create tools that generate awareness and promote rights, such as those of the LGBTQ+ community.

In this context, it’s imperative to note that Thailand is making significant strides towards becoming a leader in Southeast Asia for promoting LGBTQI+ inclusion and equality. Despite ongoing challenges, Thailand is progressively working towards securing the rights of LGBTQI+ individuals, particularly in the workplace. The Inclusion Toolkit, developed by UNDP in partnership with the Sasin School of Management, the Embassy of Canada to Thailand, and members of the LGBTQI+ community, offers practical guidance and best practices to foster more inclusive work environments.

This comprehensive resource addresses key themes such as the business case for inclusion, essential human resources policies, organizational codes of conduct, and impactful training and awareness programs. The Toolkit is designed to transform intentions into meaningful actions, providing organizations with the tools to create truly inclusive cultures that benefit both employees and business outcomes. It includes readiness checklists, planning aids, and tailored recommendations based on an organization’s current level of LGBTQI+ inclusion.

By implementing these practices, Thai businesses can enhance their productivity, innovation, and global reputation while contributing to a society where everyone feels valued and respected. Join us in building a future where all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can thrive in their workplaces.

In conclusion, the DEI Inclusion Toolkit is an invaluable resource for any organization looking to improve its diversity, equity, and inclusion practices. It’s not just a theoretical guide, but a practical tool that can lead to tangible change. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in making their workplace more inclusive and equitable.

Credits to:

Thank you Workplace Pride

I’m thankful to 微软 's good leaders for letting me join this nice conference.

Drew B. Mallory, Ph.D. Schalk Van Heerden Karl Stuart , Chartered FCIPD Kees Pronk Fleur van Ostade Schalk Van Heerden + more

Resources:

Inclusion Toolkit for Organizations and Business: LGBTQI+ Insights to Increase Inclusion for All | United Nations Development Programme (undp.org)

International Workplace Pride