AFD Commits to Better Inclusion of LGBT+ People
published on 29 June 2022
AFD Group has signed an LGBT+ commitment charter, continuing its efforts to combat inequality. The aim of this charter is to improve the inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in the workplace.
In line with the commitments made during the Afnor diversity certification process, Agence Française de Développement Group has made a commitment to create an inclusive environment for LGBT employees and ensure equal rights and treatment for all employees, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, by signing this charter established by the L’Autre Cercle association. It also provides a means to support employees who are victims of discriminatory comments or actions, assess progress and share best practices to improve the general working environment.
L’Autre Cercle, founded in 1997, is a leading organization in the field of LGBT+ inclusion in the workplace. Today, over 170 public and private organizations have signed the LGBT+ Commitment Charter, representing nearly two million employees and agents.
“In line with our program to promote gender equality and diversity, the signing of the L’Autre Cercle charter reflects a threefold commitment by AFD,” says Rémy Rioux, Chief Executive Officer of AFD Group. “A commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against homophobia. A commitment to guarantee the inclusion of LGBT+ people by making AFD an open and caring place where everyone is free to be seen and heard. And, lastly, a commitment to a consistent approach, by integrating the protection of LGBT+ people into our operations.”
Further reading: Xheni Karaj, Backing LGBT Rights in Albania
A specialist working group at AFD has also developed an action plan to improve the inclusion of LGBT+ people, as a corollary to the signing of this charter. The key focus areas of this plan include parenthood, expatriation, LGBT-phobia and visibility.
“LGBT+ employees must be afforded the same rights of parenthood, regardless of how they access it, and should feel empowered to exercise these rights,” says Julien Seillan, Executive Director of Human Resources. “LGBT+ employees planning to move abroad should be informed of the risks involved in living in their destination countries and will require support in making their decision.”
In parallel to this event, AFD launched a new internal LGBT+ and Pride Allies Network. The network’s mission is to promote diversity within AFD Group, combat LGBT-phobia, guide and support the Group’s employees, particularly in the case of expatriation, and integrate the Group’s LGBT+ inclusion strategy into its projects.
See also : Watch this event on replay
