When Policy Shifts Become Global: The Ripple Effects of Ending SEI

In the world of geopolitics, small policy shifts can create massive ripple effects. The recent decision by the Trump administration to end SEI (Strengthening Economic Inclusion) may seem like a localized move, but if this trend gains momentum, the implications could be far-reaching—particularly for Indigenous and other marginalized groups.

What Happens if SEI Disappears Everywhere?

The core principle of SEI has been about economic participation—ensuring that traditionally underserved communities have access to funding, resources, and opportunities. By shutting down such initiatives, the first and most immediate impact will be on those who have historically been left out of mainstream economic activity. But the secondary and tertiary effects could be even more significant:

1. Governments Lose Momentum on Indigenous Investment – Programs that promote Indigenous entrepreneurship, employment, and education often rely on SEI-like structures. If these disappear, many nations—including Australia—may find their Indigenous economic development strategies losing vital support, stalling progress.
2. Corporations Lose Incentives for Inclusion – Many organizations have relied on government-backed initiatives to create diversity-driven hiring and supplier programs. Without these frameworks, there’s a risk that business priorities shift away from Indigenous and community-led projects in favor of cost-cutting and efficiency.
3. International Development Efforts May Retreat – Many SEI-style policies have influenced global development funding and international aid priorities. If one major economy pulls back from inclusion-driven economic policy, others may follow, leading to reduced international support for economic justice initiatives.
4. Technology and Innovation May Become Less Inclusive – SEI has played a role in ensuring Indigenous and other underrepresented groups are considered in digital economy policies. The absence of such frameworks could accelerate digital exclusion, reducing representation in AI, tech investment, and digital workforce development.

Why Australia (and the World) Should Pay Attention

Australia has been working towards a more inclusive economic model, with a growing focus on Indigenous participation in business, government contracts, and innovation. If the U.S. decision to end SEI signals a broader shift in priorities, we may see:

• A decline in targeted Indigenous procurement programs.
• Less emphasis on First Nations innovation and STEM investment.
• A slowing of policies that prioritize economic reconciliation and land-based industries.

More broadly, global corporations—many of whom operate in multiple markets—could use this shift as a reason to scale back Indigenous and diversity-driven commitments.

What’s the Call to Action?

For leaders in government, business, and policy, this is not the time to let economic inclusion slide down the priority list. The challenge ahead is clear: ensuring that the principles of SEI—whether named or not—continue to guide decision-making. That means:

• Governments reinforcing Indigenous economic inclusion regardless of external pressures.
• Businesses embedding sustainable diversity strategies independent of policy fluctuations.
• Industry leaders advocating for international frameworks that support equitable growth.

A Future Built on Inclusion

Economic inclusion isn’t just a policy—it’s a commitment to a fairer and more resilient economy. If SEI disappears in one place, it must be strengthened elsewhere. The real question is: who will step up to lead?

About Tech 4 Humanity: As a global movement, Tech 4 Humanity Humanity focuses on the societal impact of technological innovation. We champion ethical AI, human-centered design, and partnerships that prioritize inclusivity, sustainability, and equity. Together, we can harness technology to create a better future for all.