Let's take action: Diversity & Inclusion Special!

Dr Cara Antoine: “You should ask yourself: What are YOU doing to activate organisational change?"

Despite the Netherlands’ typically outstanding performances in global development rankings, the country continues to fall behind in gender equality. The latest World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Report places the Netherlands 28th, far below its usually close-ranking countries, such as Sweden, ranking in 5th place. Despite almost perfect scores in Education and Health, the Dutch placement drops due to low scores in categories such as Economic Participation & Opportunity and Political Empowerment. These include indicators such as estimated earned income, wage equality, and representation in legislators, senior officials, and managers. Moreover, The Netherlands is one of the remaining European countries yet to choose its first-ever female head of state.

How can a country that is considered progressive in many areas be so far behind on gender equality? What actions do business leaders and companies need to take to accelerate the journey towards gender equality? In the middle of May, during the European Commission’s International Diversity Month, the Swedish Chamber Insights sat down with Dr Cara Antoine to find out.

“We will not rest until we create an environment where every single employee feels valued, safe and empowered to contribute fully to SKF´s future success” says Yves Nys.

Swedish engineering company SKF knows all about the need for speed, agility, and creativity to gain an edge in a competitive global marketplace. Convinced that an inclusive culture is the bedrock for business growth, SKF is doubling down on its commitment to fostering a work environment where every voice is heard. The Swedish Chamber is proud to have SKF as one of its Patron Members, and Yves Nys, Global Wellbeing and D&I Manager at SKF, as one of the engaged Committee Members in the Swedish Chamber’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee.

“Just be yourself” is a common mantra, but in the workplace, it is often easier said than done. For many employers, creating an environment where every employee feels empowered to bring their authentic selves to work, regardless of identity (and the stereotypes and expectations that come with it) can be a major challenge. For SKF, it is not just a challenge; it is at the heart of their future growth strategy. 

 With operations spanning 130 countries and a workforce of 40,000, SKF, the world´s largest rolling bearing manufacturer, has always been strongly aware of the need for diversity and inclusion (D&I). After all, its customers and employees live and work in thousands of diverse communities around the world.

CSRD

Let me explain what the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) is. The CSRD requires companies to report on the impact of corporate activities on the environment and society and requires the audit (assurance) of reported information. This means you must report on all data points and information required by this EU law in your annual report. Your accountant will audit these data points and plans before signing off on your yearly report. A brief paragraph about your D&I policy will no longer be enough. And we all know the consequences when your accountant does not sign off…

Do you want to be featured in upcoming Swedish Chamber Insights?

As always, we are happy to receive your feedback and ideas. Welcome to email us with your input, questions and through via communication@swedishchamber.nl, and suggestions for how you can present your company in the upcoming issues!