3.1  What is meant by inclusion?

The terms equality, equity, diversity and inclusion often come as a package (e.g. EDI policies) but what is the meaning of each of these terms?

Activity icon Activity 4  What do equality, equity, diversity and inclusion mean?

Timing: Allow around 5 minutes

What do you understand by equality, equity, diversity and inclusion? Match the terms below to the correct definition (adapted from the United Nations, UN Global Compact, 2025).

Two lists follow, match one item from the first with one item from the second. Each item can only be matched once. There are 3 items in each list.

  1. Diversity

  2. Inclusion

  3. Equity

Match each of the previous list items with an item from the following list:

  • a.2. ______ is relational, it is about the experience of individuals and groups in the workplace. It is about feeling seen, understood and valued as an individual with a unique identity, skills and experience.

  • b.3. ______ recognises that each person has different circumstances, that historically, some groups of people have experienced discrimination and that reaching equal outcomes will not be achieved by treating everyone the same. The focus is on allocating resources and opportunities according to circumstance and need.

  • c.1. ______ often focuses on quantity and the representation of different groups in an enterprise. Within organisations, there will be a focus on equality of opportunity and treatment in access to employment, development, promotion and pay for a range of people.

The correct answers are:
  • 1 = c,
  • 2 = a,
  • 3 = b

Answer

How did you do?

‘While diversity tends to focus on quantity, equity and inclusion are focused on quality’ (UN Global Compact, 2025).

Inclusion is not about simply tolerating differences, inclusion means actively ensuring that people feel welcomed, valued and respected for who they are. It means actively creating environments where everyone feels they are appreciated and can participate in whatever way they can.

Inclusion and equity at work involve ensuring as many people as possible can participate or be represented in work-based activities. In relation to chairing online meetings, this means being aware of what barriers there might be for attendees to participate.

3  The importance of inclusive chairing

3.2  Inclusion and participation in meetings