30 Jun 2015
The impact of quotas and targets on diversity
A discussion of the pros and cons of quotas and other affirmative action policies, reviewing evidence from politics education and the workplace
What are the effects of quotas on organisations and targeted groups? In what circumstances could quotas work most effectively? And when are they most likely to fail?
In our report, Quotas and targets: How do they affect diversity progress? we consider the advantages and disadvantages of quotas. The report is mainly concerned with how best to improve the gender balance in the top roles in organisations. It looks at the debate around the EU proposal to introduce mandatory targets to increase the representation of women on company boards. The report also reviews evidence from the worlds of politics and education as well as the workplace. It includes analysis of the findings relating to the use of quota systems and reviews the effects of positive and affirmative action in general. The report also considers the factors that influence attitudes towards the use of compulsory quotas.
Download the report below
Explore our related content
Factsheets
Diversity and inclusion in the workplace
Understand what diversity and inclusion mean in the workplace and how an effective D&I strategy can support business
Podcasts
Have employers got the skills to employ young people?
Episode 78: Does your organisation have the skills to support young workers? This episode looks at what businesses and HR could and should be doing to boost working opportunities for young people.
Reports
Diversity and inclusion at work: facing up to the business case
Our new report assesses the evidence on the outcomes of diversity at work and how organisations can tackle these to make work an equal business