This is the second white paper in a series exploring the important and sometimes contentious subject of equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). In the first paper, the BCI took a neutral stance, with the aim of ‘taking the temperature’ or our membership and the wider profession on this subject and its relationship with resilience. As a membership organization, our remit is to represent any consensus that emerges from our global community.

It was clear from the initial white paper that, although there are dissenting voices, the majority of BCI members are supportive of EDI and see it as bringing positive benefits to organizational resilience. In fact, 70% of respondents to the survey for this white paper series say that EDI contributes significantly or moderately to overall organizational resilience.

This aligns with the views of the BCI’s board and executive. We are therefore pleased, in this second white paper, to take a clearer position, unapologetically highlighting the many ways in which EDI strengthens resilience and its various constituent elements.

EDI is not only an ethical imperative, but it is, as this white paper concludes, a force multiplier, strengthening the effectiveness of resilience strategies - and an essential catalyst for building strong, adaptive, and holistic organizational resilience.