BNP Paribas is committed to diversity and inclusion

During the week of 5-9 October 2015, BNP Paribas is organising a series of events focused on diversity and inclusion^([1]) in the workplace, aimed at raising awareness and encouraging the exchange of ideas between the Group's employees. 

This week of events has a truly international dimension, spanning Great Britain, Belgium, the United States and France. It will address a number of issues relating to diversity and inclusion.

BNP Paribas Fortis in Belgium will invite its employees to an exhibition on career diversity throughout the Bank's history. In France, some events will be open to external guests for the first time. BNP Paribas' women entrepreneur clients will be able to visit an exhibition of photos and videos on women in banking and leadership by women. In the United Kingdom, BNP Paribas will organise a day of conferences on gender equality in the workplace, in partnership with the association BNP Paribas MixCity^([2]). ​ In the United States, BNP Paribas' internal networks will propose various events focused on multi-culturalism (Asian, Hispanic cultures) and the inclusion of mental disabilities at work.

These events aim to reflect society's current concerns. For this reason, employees will also be able to attend a round-table on religious diversity at work.

Artistic performances on difference and stereotypes will be held throughout the week.

In France, BNP Paribas will sign the "l'Autre Cercle" commitment charter, which sets out best practice for combating discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

"With this week of events dedicated to diversity and inclusion, BNP Paribas is clearly demonstrating its commitment to valuing differences. By encouraging openness towards others, the group aims to improve its employees' well-being and develop team cohesion," said Barbara Levéel, Head of Diversity at BNP Paribas.

10 years of commitment - BNP Paribas was one of the first banking groups to adopt a policy to prevent workplace discrimination and promote diversity. In 2006 it included discrimination risk in its 30 major operational risks. BNP Paribas also ensures that all differences are respected and valued. Its Diversity policy is firmly focused on promoting equal opportunities and inclusion.

Since 2004, the group's Diversity policy is implemented on a daily basis with the signing of agreements, diversity training to curtail stereotypes, measures to advance equal opportunities for men and women and to increase the international profile of management teams, a Disability policy to facilitate the recruitment and integration of disabled employees, partnerships with specialised associations and support for employees' networks that foster inclusion.

[1] Inclusion is defined as being the opposite of exclusion. An inclusive environment is one that allows employees to express their differences.

[2] MixCity is a network of women from BNP Paribas set up in 2004 on the premise that diversity is a source of growth and value for everyone. ​ The association is currently active in 11 countries, including Great Britain.