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The great diversity and inclusion pushback: why it’s wrong and what you can do about it

Sustainability
Atlyn Forde
29 January 2025

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives have been gaining traction in the travel industry, but the global climate has changed. 

Despite what Donald Trump suggests, there remains a powerful case for businesses to push forward in their commitment to inclusivity – not least within travel

Small steps can go a long way when it comes to DEI, experts said (Credit: iStock)

Where once inclusion was embraced, some companies are now turning their backs. It’s a global challenge, particularly in the wake of political shifts, such as the recent rollbacks of DEI policies in the US following Donald Trump’s executive orders.

While the UK has not seen such drastic policy changes, some businesses can still encounter resistance when trying to implement DEI strategies. Pushback can stem from a variety of sources: long-standing company cultures, budget constraints, or simply a lack of understanding about the tangible benefits of inclusivity.