Trump's DEI Cuts Push Davos Elites to Rethink Diversity Language

By Alex Assoune Jan 23, 2025

DAVOS, Switzerland - President Donald Trump's administration has issued several executive orders eliminating federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, prompting a search for new terminology at the World Economic Forum in Davos.

The orders aim to remove what the administration calls discriminatory practices, affecting government hiring and federal contracts by disallowing considerations based on race, sex, or religion. This shift has created a challenge for business leaders at Davos, where traditionally, diversity initiatives have been seen as vital for innovation and business growth.

At the annual meeting in Davos, discussions have turned to how companies can describe their commitment to inclusive practices without using the now politically sensitive terms like "DEI" or "DEIA" (diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility). Leaders from various industries are exploring alternative phrases to convey similar values in a way that aligns with the new administrative directives.

Investment in diversity is not expected to wane, despite the policy changes, according to some bankers present at the forum. They argue that a diverse workforce mirrors the global market and drives innovation. However, not everyone at Davos agrees, with some seeing these moves as a step towards more merit-based systems, potentially at the expense of underrepresented groups.

The Trump administration's directives include putting federal DEI staff on leave and planning for layoffs, signaling a broader push against what they describe as identity-based hiring practices. Critics, including activists, argue that this move might disproportionately benefit those already in advantageous positions, under the guise of prioritizing merit.

As Davos 2025 unfolds, the conversation around diversity continues to evolve, with participants seeking ways to maintain their commitment to inclusivity while navigating the new political landscape. The forum's discussions are a microcosm of a larger debate in the corporate world about how to balance diversity with meritocracy.

Cet article vous a-t-il été utile ? S'il vous plaît dites-nous ce que vous avez aimé ou n'avez pas aimé dans les commentaires ci-dessous.

About the Author: Alex Assoune

Alex Assoune (MS) is a global health and environmental advocate. He founded Panaprium to inspire others with conscious living, ethical, and sustainable fashion. Alex has worked in many countries to address social and environmental issues. He speaks three languages and holds two Master of Science degrees in Engineering from SIGMA and IFPEN schools.

Contre Quoi Nous Luttons

Les groupes multinationaux surproduisent des produits bon marché dans les pays les plus pauvres.
Des usines de production où les conditions s’apparentent à celles d’ateliers clandestins et qui sous-payent les travailleurs.
Des conglomérats médiatiques faisant la promotion de produits non éthiques et non durables.
De mauvais acteurs encourageant la surconsommation par un comportement inconscient.
- - - -
Heureusement, nous avons nos supporters, dont vous.
Panaprium est financé par des lecteurs comme vous qui souhaitent nous rejoindre dans notre mission visant à rendre le monde entièrement respectueux de l'environnement.

Si vous le pouvez, veuillez nous soutenir sur une base mensuelle. Cela prend moins d'une minute et vous aurez un impact important chaque mois. Merci.