Confronting Challenges
Backlash to Diversity Programs and the Role of Intersectionality
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Stella Pinna Pintor, Raffaele Alberto Ventura
The sociological and cultural shifts sweeping today's societies are leading to profound changes in organizations. The growing demand for inclusion and equality measures is prompting companies to implement programs for more effective diversity management. Nevertheless, backlash to diversity programs is a phenomenon documented in the literature, defined as a negative reaction to changes in organizations due to the introduction of diversity and inclusion policies. Usually, these kinds of resistance to diversity come from members of the majority group, who see these programs as a threat to their status quo. However, there are other forms of resistance that involve minority groups and that have more rarely been explored in depth. Conceptual analysis of the sociological and philosophical framework that has led to the definition of diversity programs can help identify the political reasons for the backlashes, by shedding light on the factors of the economy of inclusion. The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of the topic, focusing on the various players in the “equality-diversity-inclusion industrial complex” and the constraints and incentives for implementing diversity policies. Finally, taking note of the virtuous results of the interventions aimed at enhancing inclusion, the main criticisms of inclusion policies will be analyzed in order to shed light on the nodes where resistance to their implementation is consolidated. In particular, the intersectional perspective is used to provide guidelines for the development of diversity programs to avoid the risk of essentializing identities and provide a more effective and inclusive approach.
Navigating the Himalayan Crossroads: Identity, Socio-Environmental Challenges, and Community Governance in the Shadow of Conflict
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Wafa Rasheeq Mir
This paper delves into the multifaceted issue of conflict in the Himalayas, shedding light on its profound implications for community diversity and governance within the region. Against the backdrop of the ongoing territorial dispute between China and India, this study explores the intricate interplay of identity, and socio-environmental challenges in shaping the conflict's dynamics. In doing so, it presents a comprehensive analysis that spans the realms of socio-cultural identity, ecological resilience, and inclusive governance. The paper's body is divided into three main sections, each offering a unique perspective on the Himalayan conflict. First, it investigates the profound influence of identity on the territorial dispute, emphasizing how these factors influence the perceptions and aspirations of the diverse communities residing in the region. Second, it dissects the intricate relationship between the conflict and pressing socio-environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and natural disasters, and the disparate impact on local communities. Lastly, the paper highlights the pivotal role of community diversity and governance in addressing the conflict and fostering peace, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies and the empowerment of marginalized communities. In conclusion, this paper summarizes the key findings and insights, underlining the significance of addressing issues related to identity, and socio-environmental challenges as essential components of any strategy aimed at promoting lasting peace in the Himalayas.
Corruption, Gender Inequality and Environmental Performance: From Exploitation to Affection
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Paul D. Larson, Jack Kulchitsky
Corruption, inequality and environmental degradation are rampant around the world today. But are these issues inter-related? If so, how are they inter-related? This paper develops and tests hypotheses based on a review of the literature and theories linking corruption, gender inequality and environmental performance. It contrasts two paradigms of sustainable development – economies of exploitation vs. economies of affection – by positioning them along a continuum. Testing the hypotheses draws on several secondary data sources, including the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) and the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). A significant direct effect is found between corruption and the EPI. Corruption is clearly detrimental to the environment. There is also an indirect effect, through gender inequality. Gender inequality is also directly linked to lower environmental performance. GDP/capita and “democracy” enter the analysis as control variables. While the study uses secondary data, all sources are considered credible. The results should inspire businesses, governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to invest in, legislate toward and advocate for greater gender equality, as well as stronger anti-corruption policies and practices. This paper appears to be among the first to empirically link gender inequality to environmental performance. It also demonstrates how social issues can impact the environmental performance of nations and suggests sustainable development may best be built on a foundation of gender equality and freedom from corruption, i.e. on an economy of affection.
