Diversity and Inclusiveness

Promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace is a priority at ICARDA.

Diversity and inclusion practices strengthen the capacity of organizations to make effective decisions, to solve complex problems, and to be more innovative. Many studies underline the positive correlation between diversity and increased organizational performance. In short, diversity is smart business.

Gender balance in staffing is an important aspect of diversity. It is also key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which have gender equity as both an explicit and cross-cutting objective. As the demographics for professionals in agricultural sciences evolve - with a notable increase in women’s participation - ICARDA is proactively seeking ways to achieve gender balance, particularly in our scientist and senior manager groups.

Driven by a strong commitment to improve the representation of women in the work force and to promote inclusive practices, ICARDA’s management has developed an action plan, which was approved by the Board of Trustees in November 2018. The plan focuses on enhancing recruitment practices, including more targeted sourcing to reach a larger pool of qualified women, improving safeguarding policies, and promoting a work-life balance. Our ambition is to become recognized within the CGIAR, and among other international organizations, as an “employer of choice” for its diversity and inclusive policies and practices.