Wrapping Up 2024: DEI Progress and What’s Next for 2025

Season’s greetings! As the year ends, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how far we’ve come in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) — and where we need to go next.

2024 was a year of action and evolution in DEI. Here’s a look back and some insights for 2025:

📊 2024 in Numbers and Insights

  • 85% of companies globally expressed a commitment to DEI, but only 43% have robust, actionable strategies (source: Forbes)
  • The DEI field grew by 15%, yet many roles were add-ons rather than standalone positions, leaving gaps in accountability.
  • Cross-sector collaborations surged by 20%, showing the power of partnerships between businesses, NGOs, and universities.
  • According to the ETLA Economic Research Institute, foreigners contribute to 60% of patents in Finland.

💡 What Changed Since My January Post?

  • Action Over Words: Companies focus less on slogans and more on measurable outcomes.
  • Shift in Roles: A rising number of DEI leaders lost titles, but this opened conversations on embedding DEI deeper into organizational strategies.
  • Sustainable Careers: Predictable income remains a challenge for DEI professionals, calling for innovative funding and organizational support.

🎯 Three Things to Consider for 2025

  • Deepen Integration: Make DEI part of your core business strategy, not an optional add-on.
  • Measure Impact: Build systems to track progress and ROI on DEI initiatives — only 30% of companies currently do this effectively.
  • Upskill and Collaborate: Invest in cross-sector partnerships and robust training for leadership and employees alike.

Let’s make 2025 the year where DEI becomes more than just a conversation. It’s time for action, accountability, and authentic inclusion.

🌍 A Small Act of Kindness

This year, I have consistently supported Doctors Without Borders for their incredible work in caring for people in conflict zones. I encourage you to consider supporting an organization making a real impact. You can support them here: Doctors Without Borders

Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a DEI-empowered New Year!

Warm regards,

Kamilla Sultanova

P.S. Keep an eye out for my DEI Trends Report 2025 coming in January!

    about-kamilla-sultanova

    About Kamilla

    Kamilla Sultanova is an award-winning speaker, event host, moderatora, and DEI consultant dedicated to building inclusive workplaces and communities across Europe and Central Asia. She writes about belonging, leadership, and the courage it takes to drive change – on stage and beyond.

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