Inclusion in the labour market through synergy between science and practice

How diverse and inclusive are Dutch organisations? And how can they optimise their diversity and inclusion policies? These are the central questions in this project, a collaboration between our research team at Utrecht University, the NIM Foundation, and Diversity in Practice.

Many organisations realise that it is vital to create a diverse and inclusive organisation in which all employees belong and can be themselves, irrespective of their differences or similarities. From a business perspective, investing in diversity and inclusion is important because it can spark innovation, increase flexibility and, ultimately, improve financial performance. From a societal perspective, creating and sustaining a diverse and inclusive organisation is important to counter social inequality and to reduce prejudice and stigmas regarding certain groups of people.

Realising a diverse and inclusive organisation, however, is not an easy task. Evidence-based insight is needed in what works. In this project, we collect data on the policy practices and employee experiences in Dutch organisations through the Netherlands Inclusivity Monitor and The Monitor Charter Diversity. These data are jointly analysed and compared with the most recent scientific insights. The results are translated to concrete practical tools and recommendations for Dutch organisations and other relevant stakeholders.