May – European Diversity Month 2025
Support an open and inclusive work environment
Diversity as a Key to a Sustainable Society
May is one of the most beautiful months of the year. Everything around us is in bloom, nature is bursting with colors, and the air is full of life and vibrancy. As we look at blooming trees, flower beds, or greening parks, it reminds us of something important: the true strength of life lies in diversity.
Just as nature is not monotonous, our society and workplaces are not monochromatic either. Each of us brings our own experiences, perspectives, talents — our own “colors” — which together create a richer and stronger whole. That is why we celebrate May as the European Diversity Month – to remind ourselves that diversity is not only a value we admire in nature, but also something we should support and protect among ourselves.
Why does it matter?
Because an inclusive environment is not just a “nice bonus.” It is the foundation for companies, organizations, and institutions that want to grow, innovate, and create environments where people feel good, can develop their skills and talents, and be their authentic selves. Through this initiative, the European Commission reaffirms its commitment to fighting discrimination and promoting equal opportunities for all.
Especially in these turbulent times, it is important not to hesitate to support our democratic values, an open society, and mutual respect. That is why we at Business for Society launched European Diversity Month 2025 with a webinar on the topic titled “Diversity at the Crossroads.”
Our Diversity Charter Ambassadors Made a Strong Impression in Brussels
The European Diversity Month 2025 was also officially launched by the European Commission – with a meeting in Brussels on April 29–30, 2025.
We attended the meeting on behalf of the Diversity Charter Czech Republic together with one of our Diversity Charter Ambassadors, Komerční banka, a.s. Joining us in Brussels was Sherin Abazeidová, Chief Culture & Diversity Officer, who is also the recipient of the TOP Responsible Leader in Diversity 2024 award.
Representing the Slovak Diversity Charter was Martina Hlisnikovská, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Leader at IKEA CZ/HU/SK. IKEA is also a signatory of the Diversity Charter in the Czech Republic.
At the opening ceremony, prominent figures from the European Commission spoke in person, such as Commissioner for Equality (DG Justice) Hadja Lahbib, Irena Moozová, Deputy Director-General of DG Justice & Consumers, and Magdalena Dropek, counsellor in the Equal Treatment Department, Office of the Prime Minister of Poland, under the Polish presidency.
Strong support for the European Commission and the Commissioner for Equality was also expressed by all 27 European Diversity Charters through the presentation of a joint commitment “Pledge” – promoting diversity, inclusion, and equality across all EU member states.
Another highlight of the programme was a panel discussion titled “United in Diversity – staying strong in defending and promoting our values” – a topic we at Business for Society have also been actively engaged in recently. The panel included representatives from companies such as Hays and Micro+Polo, the European Pride Business Network, and the European Commission.
The conference programme on the first day concluded with a ceremonial event where the European Capitals of Diversity and Inclusion for 2025 were announced. You can find the results here at this link.
The second day, dedicated to networking, included several practical workshops, where we shared our experiences, good practices, and also the challenges we are currently facing together. The practices of Diversity Charter Ambassadors from the Czech Republic received great attention, and their representatives became sought-after guests during the networking sessions.
One message came through clearly – whether from European Commission representatives, company delegates, partner organisations, or municipalities – diversity and inclusion are among the core values of the European Union. These are not just words on paper – they are principles and commitments that remind us that no group of people or employees should be overlooked. Everyone should have the opportunity to be a full part of society and the labour market.
The European Union does not give up on its values and commitments to diversity, equality, inclusion, and justice. And we should not see them as obligations, but above all as a tremendous social and economic opportunity. Because sustainable development is not just about green technologies and ecological solutions – it happens where people with diverse experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives are given the chance to create, grow, and change the world around them for the better.
How to get involved?
This year, European Diversity Month 2025 focuses on supporting mental health and well-being in the workplace. However, you can get involved in any way that makes sense for you. You can choose a topic that matters to you. Whether you opt for workshops, discussions, community events, or internal campaigns – every small step counts.
Join more than 17,500 signatories of the Diversity Charter and show that equality, inclusion, and diversity matter to you. Your involvement helps move society toward greater openness and respect.
Help us create an atmosphere where people don’t have to hide who they are. Engage your colleagues, employees, and partners – and show them clearly that they belong.
Find more information on our website and social media. Join us and show that diversity is not just a word, but a value you live by.
#EUDiversityMonth #UnionOfEquality
EU Diversity Month 2025 website
“Why should companies get involved in the European Diversity Month?
Because for millions of people, it is precisely companies that play a key role in making the Union of Equality a reality. By committing to support diversity and integrating it into their workplace policies, companies can create environments where everyone thrives and can truly be themselves. Join the movement this May that celebrates inclusive, non-discriminatory workplaces and has a positive impact on society,” says Hadja Lahbib, European Commissioner for Equality
Newsletter
Odebírejte náš newsletter a neunikne vám nic ze světa Charty diverzity a udržitelného rozvoje.
Contact
BPS – Byznys pro společnost, z. s.
V Tůních 1357/11, 2nd floor
Praha 2, 120 00
Tel.: +420 739 717 789
info@byznysprospolecnost.cz
www.byznysprospolecnost.cz
Co-funded by the Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme of the European Union