Equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI)
Promoting scientific research and increasing scientific and societal impact, in short the success of NWO-I, depends on the commitment, quality, enthusiasm and diversity of our employees. We strive for an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels at home and where everyone has the opportunity to develop in a fair environment . NWO-I is working on equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) at NWO-I-wide level and per institute.
The theme of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) has been high on the NWO agenda for many years. We take a positive approach, focusing on the added value of equity, diversity and inclusion. Measuring impact plays an important role in achieving our ambitions, and managers are actively involved in both the development and implementation of the EDI policy. A special steering group has been set up within NWO-I for this purpose: SPARK. This group represents all institutes and the NWO-I office, and is responsible for drawing up and, where necessary, adjusting the EDI plan for the coming years. The ultimate goal is to achieve a sustainable embedding of diversity, equity and inclusion within NWO-I.
EDI teams at the institutes and NWO-I office
Almost every institute and the NWO-I office has a 'local' EDI team with its own name. These teams work within their institute to build and sustain an inclusive community. The priorities and working methods are closely aligned with the overarching EDI plan of NWO-I. These institute-based teams choose their own priorities and working methods. For example, they organise local activities in the field of EDI, promote awareness of the theme, and/or look for ways to contribute to a socially safe working environment. There is a quarterly consultation between the chairpersons and the EDI Advisor of NWO-I. The EDI teams are also increasingly seeking cooperation with each other. More information about the work of your EDI team can be found on the intranet of your institute.
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are NWO/NWO-I employee networks, which are organised around different themes. ERGs provide a place where historically underrepresented groups can meet. Such networks provide support, create awareness and promote EDI policy through education and by involving allies. NWO/NWO-I has the following ERGs:
These ERGs regularly organise NWO/NWO-I wide meetings. Keep an eye on this webpage for updates.
EDI at NWO-I level
NWO-I has an EDI Advisor, Judith Kreukels, who works closely with the EDI Project Leader at NWO-D, Anneke Bloemen. NWO-D is responsible for employer and subsidy policy. Efforts are also being made at the central NWO-I level to firmly embed EDI within the organisation. SPARK stands for Steering Group for Promoting Access, Knowledge, and Research on EDI. The EDI steering group aims to provide strategic direction for EDI initiatives within NWO-I. SPARK was established at the end of 2023 and all institutes and the NWO-I office are represented in it. SPARK consists of members who have specific EDI tasks in their daily work, such as institute managers, but also members of the EDI teams or employee networks (ERG). In addition, they often fulfil other functions within their organisation.
EDI news articles
Various news articles were publised about EDI. An overview:
- Diversity & Inclusion at NWO-I: an update - NWO-I (June 2024)
- Judith Kreukels is the Diversity & Inclusion project leader (April 2023)
- Implementing an inclusive and diverse personnel policy at NWO-I (November 2022)
More information
For more information, please contact Judith Kreukels, Advisor Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.