Unpacking the Experiences of Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Practitioners in the Dutch Public Sector Navigating the Labyrinth: Role Dynamics, Overcoming Challenges, and Deploying Strategies within the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations
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2023-07-03
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en
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As diversity and inclusion (D&I) have been recognised for their positive impact on organisations, D&I practitioners have emerged as crucial actors in promoting diversity policies. To address a research gap on these practitioners, this study focuses on the perceptions of individuals working in the public sector, specifically within MinBZK. Using a qualitative approach and template analysis as a method, this study reveals two important findings. Firstly, a dichotomy exists in the role of D&I practitioners within MinBZK. Operational D&I practitioners (D&I practitioners) actively integrate D&I into their daily tasks, challenging prevailing norms, while coordinating D&I practitioners (D&I coordinators) concentrate on strategic initiatives at the department level, leveraging external resources and engaging top-level leadership. Both groups encounter similar challenges within MinBZK, such as implicit resistance, complexity, uncertainty, and inequality regimes – which necessitate a comprehensive and inclusive approach. Secondly, this study highlights the innovative strategies employed by D&I practitioners and coordinators, including leveraging impactful societal events and utilising internal and external networks to drive change. These findings underscore the complex dynamics of practising D&I within public sector organisations and emphasise the need for continued research to inform the development of effective strategies to promote D&I in the public sector.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen