Open For Business launched its second report in support of LGBT+ inclusion at WEF 2018
Open For Business launched its second report in support of LGBT+ inclusion, “Strengthening the economic case” on 24 January 2018 at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The launch of the new report creates a moment for global business clearly state that LGBT+ inclusion is not only a moral issue, it is a business issue.
Open For Business is a coalition of global companies making the case that inclusive, diverse societies are better for business and better for economic growth. The purpose of the coalition is to advance LGBT+ inclusion globally, by promoting a positive economic and business case for equality of opportunity for everyone, all across the world.
Open For Business is a response to the growing backlash against LGBT+ inclusion in many parts of the world. Our coalition partners share a deep-rooted commitment to diversity and inclusion in their own workplaces, and they are concerned about the spread of anti-LGBT+ policies in many countries in which they operate.
The economic and business case for LGBT+ inclusion is central to the mission of Open For Business. In 2015 the coalition published a report containing the most comprehensive evidence base linking LGBT+ inclusion to better economic and business performance. This report was pivotal to reframing LGBT+ rights as an economic issue, as well as a human rights issue.
This is the second report of the Open For Business coalition, and further strengthens the economic case. It is intended to fuel our Open For Business programs, which exist on two levels:
Our Local Influencer Program works with senior business leaders in countries with anti-LGBT+ sentiments, creating advocates for positive change by giving them the evidence and the impetus to use their influence. Already, Open For Business has initiated C-Suite networks in nine countries, working closely with local LGBT+ groups.
Our Global Influencer Program harnesses the voice of high profile global business leaders, building a consensus in the international business community around the economic case for LGBT+ inclusion, and raising awareness through top tier global press, social media and events.
Our task is to present the business rationale for global LGBT+ inclusion. The moral case has already been made, and now the economic case continues to grow stronger: successful, enterprising businesses thrive in diverse, inclusive societies and the spread of anti-LGBT+ policies runs counter to the interests of business and economic development.
You can download the report here (9 MB).