Today, nine new organizations signed the Diversity Charter. The core of joining the charter lies in its value framework: respecting human diversity and upholding the principles of equal treatment among employees, partners, and clients. The activities of the Diversity Charter network are coordinated by the Estonian Human Rights Centre and supported by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications.

According to Helen Talalaev, Head of Diversity and Inclusion at the Estonian Human Rights Centre, achieving the goals outlined in the Diversity Charter requires conscious daily actions. “An open and inclusive work environment, where every individual is valued and respected regardless of their differences and unique traits, involves taking small and big steps every day,” Talalaev says. “Joining the Diversity Charter is one such step, to be followed by others: ensuring equal treatment in working conditions and pay, accommodating special and additional needs, creating opportunities to report discrimination, and informing employees about their rights and responsibilities in fostering a respectful and caring workplace. By developing organizational culture in this way, organizations also contribute to building a cohesive society that respects human rights.”

The list of new members is diverse, including representatives from both the public and private sectors. This time, the charter was signed by Aastat Estonia, Bestair Group, Estonian Academy of Arts, Estonian Railways, Haljala Municipal Government, Hurtigruten Estonia, Multilingua Language Center, Scanfil, and Vincom. Together, the new members employ more than 2,000 people.

“For Estonian Railways, joining the Diversity Charter is a logical step in advancing the company’s sustainability and organizational culture, reflecting our commitment to respecting differences. We are one of Estonia’s largest employers, with 700 employees of various ages, nationalities, and cultural backgrounds. Joining the charter allows us to better address their interests,” commented Kaido Zimmermann, Chairman of the Management Board of AS Estonian Railways.

The 226 organizations that have joined the Diversity Charter form a community that shares experiences and strives to promote the principles of equal treatment both within their organizations and in society at large. The Estonian Diversity Charter is part of the European Diversity Charter platform, which unites similar networks in 27 European countries. In Estonia, the charter has been signed since 2012.

For more information:
Helen Talalaev, Head of Diversity and Inclusion, Estonian Human Rights Centre (helen.talalaev@humanrights.ee)