28 November 2023 
Denominator’s data featured in Danish national broadcast TV: Boards and Executives in Denmark are among the most Caucasian in the West. Denominator’s data show that 0% have an African background, 1% have an Asian background and 0.9 % have a background from the Middle East, which is the largest minority group in Denmark. Last year, an article in Børsen highlighted these numbers and although Danish companies have increased the diversity among nationalities, they lack racial/ethnical representation.
A new report by Danish Institute for Human Rights shows that 84% of racial/ethnical minorities state that they have experienced discrimination or prejudice because of their ethnic background. Moreover, many companies have targets for women in management, but how many companies have targets ethnic minorities? Or other metrics of DEI? A subject raised by Figen Cayan, Senior Transformation Partner at Maersk, in an interview with Lederstof last year.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion is not limited gender or a few dimensions but involves many. A holistic approach is essential, as a narrow focus can result in a neglection of other (very important) dimensions of DEI. Throughout the past year, we have seen a positive development in the agenda, both globally and in Scandinavia. It is encouraging to see more leaders and businesses take part in the conversation and Denominator is excited to see more research in the field. We need data to drive change.
Thank you Anja Monrad, Martin Thorborg, and Phaedria Marie St. Hilaire for an interesting discussion on these very important subjects.
Please see the below links for the mentioned resources.
- TV2 News Business Class with Vibeke Daell Bjerrum on Discrimination in workplaces
- Børsen article by Joacim Præst Nielsen on racial/ethnical representation in top leadership
- Lederstof article by Henrik Nordskilde on DEI targets for businesses
- Danish Institute for Human Rights report on Experienced ethnic discrimination in Denmark
