Diversity, equity and inclusion at a crossroads: a scoping review of the characteristics of its workplace backlash
Journal
Journal of Sustainable Business
ISSN
3059-3166
ISSN-Digital
3059-3174
Type
journal article
Date Issued
2025-10-16
Author(s)
Abstract
Purpose
Research has shown the positive impacts of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes for individuals and organisations. However, there is growing resistance to DEI in the workplace. We conduct a scoping review at the intersection of the three DEI dimensions guided by three research questions: If a multi-level lens is applied, at which level (macro, meso, or micro) is there currently evidence for a backlash against DEI? Is there evidence for a research-practice gap in this literature, and to what extent are the proposed DEI models concerning the workplace empirically tested? What evidence exists for the interplay between (i) backlash as Intentional resistance or rejection and (ii) backfire as unintended negative consequences of DEI initiatives? Overall, the meso focus dominates existing articles, but more mixed-level future research may be beneficial. Furthermore, the results suggest that while there is a tendency to bridge theory and practice, a non-negligible share of the relevant contributions has a theory-oriented focus or does not aim to complement itself with practice-related empirical applications. This fact underscores the need for more empirical studies to validate DEI initiative models in practical workplace contexts. Finally, the reviewed contributions suggest that organisations wishing to minimise any negative effects of their DEI initiatives must undertake considerable, genuine, and thoughtful work.
Research has shown the positive impacts of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes for individuals and organisations. However, there is growing resistance to DEI in the workplace. We conduct a scoping review at the intersection of the three DEI dimensions guided by three research questions: If a multi-level lens is applied, at which level (macro, meso, or micro) is there currently evidence for a backlash against DEI? Is there evidence for a research-practice gap in this literature, and to what extent are the proposed DEI models concerning the workplace empirically tested? What evidence exists for the interplay between (i) backlash as Intentional resistance or rejection and (ii) backfire as unintended negative consequences of DEI initiatives? Overall, the meso focus dominates existing articles, but more mixed-level future research may be beneficial. Furthermore, the results suggest that while there is a tendency to bridge theory and practice, a non-negligible share of the relevant contributions has a theory-oriented focus or does not aim to complement itself with practice-related empirical applications. This fact underscores the need for more empirical studies to validate DEI initiative models in practical workplace contexts. Finally, the reviewed contributions suggest that organisations wishing to minimise any negative effects of their DEI initiatives must undertake considerable, genuine, and thoughtful work.
Language
English
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
Yes
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
10
Number
Art. 18
Subject(s)
Division(s)
File(s)![Thumbnail Image]()
open.access
Name
s40991-025-00122-5.pdf
Type
Main Article
Size
1.73 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
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