What is this meeting about?
In this webinar, Henrieke van Bommel presents the key insights from the DEI Benchmark 2026.
We will explore how employees in the Netherlands experience diversity, equity, and inclusion, what trends are emerging compared to previous years, and where organizations can truly make a difference.
You will gain context behind the data as well as practical guidance on how to translate the results into policy and action within your own organization.
Presentation:
Stream:
Key take-aways:
Organizations are making visible progress in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), yet a consistent gap remains between formal policies and the actual employee experience. The discussion emphasized that sustainable impact comes from embedding DEI into leadership behavior, organizational culture, and day-to-day decision-making, rather than treating it as a standalone initiative. True progress requires organizations to move beyond mere intentions and ensure accountability at every level.
At the same time, the DEI landscape is becoming more complex, requiring a broader and more nuanced approach. Topics such as intersectionality, neurodiversity, and workplace polarization highlight the need for adaptive strategies that reflect diverse lived experiences. Organizations that leverage data-driven insights and align DEI with core HR and business strategies are better positioned to create inclusive environments that foster engagement, a sense of belonging, and long-term retention.
- “From Policy to Practice” Is the Real Challenge
Many organizations have established DEI policies, but struggle to translate them into consistent everyday practices. The real differentiator lies in embedding inclusion into workflows, leadership behaviors, and team dynamics to ensure that employees genuinely experience equity and a sense of belonging. - Leadership Accountability Drives Outcomes
Progress in DEI is strongly linked to leaders taking active ownership. Organizations that prioritize inclusive leadership and accountability mechanisms see stronger engagement, satisfaction, and retention outcomes across diverse employee groups. - A Broader View of Diversity Is Essential
Effective DEI strategies must incorporate intersectionality and neurodiversity, recognizing that employees have overlapping identities and different cognitive needs. This broader perspective enables organizations to design more inclusive and adaptable environments. - Data Enables Meaningful Progress
Measuring employee experience, belonging, and engagement provides critical insights into what is working and where gaps remain. Data-driven approaches help organizations make informed decisions and track the real impact of DEI initiatives.
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