A Changing Country: Diversity Management in Greece

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this report is to help companies and other organizations recognize the need for the adoption of antidiscrimination and inclusion practices. Design/Methodology/Approach The chapter describes the diversity practices employed and the results achieved by two companies in Greece, as reported through interviews with the Managers of Human Resources that are responsible for their implementation. Findings This chapter outlines the demographic and social profile of the population of the country, examining gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, age and disability. It also presents the practices of two companies operating in Greece, Vodafone and Coco-Mat, which tackle discrimination and inequality, proving that diversity management can be implemented successfully in the Greek workplace. The diverse policies implemented by the two companies also prove that every organization can incorporate relevant policies in a way that fits best their structure, processes and the mentality of the leadership team. Social Implications The development and activation of diversity and inclusion processes in the workplace should also dictate CSR practices, which address the needs of communities, both within and outside the organizations. Originality There is little research regarding discrimination and diversity in the Greek workplace, despite its growing relevance and importance for the community. This report aims to inspire further research, as well as the development and implementation of diversity management practices by managers and policy-makers.