Abstract
This literature review critically examines diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within professional scientific societies, contextualized within the Sustainable Development Goals and recent political shifts that threaten progress. Drawing on over 50 studies, we explore the organisational, individual, and global benefits, challenges and barriers of DEI, including innovation, resourcing, implementation and institutional culture. The review underscores the need for systemic, well-resourced, and community-led approaches embedded in governance structures. Without intentional DEI action, scientific societies risk reinforcing existing inequities, undermining legitimacy, and weakening global collaboration. This work provides a roadmap for meaningful DEI implementation to ensure that global science is truly representative, inclusive, and equitable.
Presenters
Claire JohnstonTaxonomic Governance Officer / PhD Student, Research Institute for Environment and Livlihoods, Charles Darwin University, Northern Territory, Australia Stephen T. Garnett
Charles Darwin University
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Community Diversity and Governance
KEYWORDS
EQUITY, INCLUSION, GOVERNANCE, REPRESENTATION, SCIENTIFIC SOCIETIES
