Creation of the Belgian Diversity Charter

ongoing

The objective of the project is to promote and stimulate the implementation of the non-discrimination principle and the respect for non-discrimination and human rights by setting up and developing a Belgian Diversity Charter open to both private and public companies, organisations and institutions regardless of whether they are for profit or non-profit oriented. A Diversity Charter stipulates several measures to be implemented to promote diversity, non-discrimination and equal opportunities in the workplace. It is suggested, and a growing body of evidence proves it, that employers - regardless of the size of their structure, that want to combat discrimination and promote diversity in the company’s environment, both internally and externally, should sign this short document. Signing a Diversity Charter is a voluntary action which gives access to assistance: tools (guides, training, etc.) are offered to the company to ensure it develops a coherent and effective diversity policy. The Belgian Diversity Charter aims to be the platform that motivates and facilitates systemic engagement of Belgian companies in diversity & inclusion. In doing so, Belgium joins the network of Diversity Charters across Europe, filling in one of the last gaps. During the last platform meeting of the joint EU Diversity Charters, all Charters present expressed their support for this particular application (see annex with the signed letter of support). The project will achieve this by working along 3 axes: (1) the management of the Charter as such; (2) providing added value through leveraging transnational expertise; and (3) building and developing the community of signatories.