Q8 What are the biggest barriers to achieving equality or diversity in an organisation?
A Men
B Women
C Political correctness
D Culture
E Power relations
F Lack of support from the top
A8 Whilst men are often barriers to equality and women can sometimes be, it is culture and power relations that will be the biggest blocks to achieving equality unless they are addressed. Other initiatives will only have a limited effect if people with decision-making power, and day-to-day behaviour and values (as shown in the culture) are working against them. This is why support from the top is also crucial.
One further point about political correctness. We believe that for equality/diversity to be achieved, the issues need to be discussed openly. People need to be able to voice their feelings, even if they are not politically correct. People change most easily in a culture of openness, support and challenge, not in one of criticism.
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