What can diversity management offer those concerned with ethnic inequality, racial discrimination, and issues of social and economic inclusion and exclusion? In this book John Wrench traces the emergence of diversity management in the US in the late 1980s, and explores its subsequent development in Europe. He outlines the various critiques of diversity management that have been suggested both by academics and equality activists and highlights recent issues and trends that should be monitored by those concerned with racial and ethnic equality in employment. In particular, Wrench examines whether diversity management can be seen as a 'soft option' in terms of combating racism and discrimination, or instead, a new way of mainstreaming anti-discrimination measures. He also addresses the important question of whether the development of diversity management in Europe will follow a relatively uniform trajectory because of common demographic, economic and market pressures, or whether the historical, cultural and institutional differences which exist between EU countries, and between the EU and the US, will have a determining impact on the adoption, content and operation of this particular management practice.

About the Author

John Wrench is Visiting Professor at the Centre for Diversity and Inclusion, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim. He has researched and published for many years in the area of ethnic inclusion and discrimination in the labour market in comparative European perspective, as well as teaching courses on diversity management.

Reviews

'...a concise overview of American origins and European adaptations of diversity management in employment, a useful typology of anti-discrimination and diversity policies, and a strong defence of a comprehensive approach that integrates these two concerns. This is a state-of-the art book by one of Europe's top experts and essential reading for policy-makers, practitioners and academics.' Rainer BaubAck, European University Institute, Italy 'In Diversity Management and Discrimination: Immigrants and Ethnic Minorities in the EU, author John Wrench provides an important summary of the initiatives aimed at promoting diversity in the European workplace. The analysis is strengthened by the comparisons offered with discourse and action around diversity in North America...provid[ing] valuable insight into the challenges of doing comparative work in the area of diversity across national jurisdictions.' International Migration & Integration 'The book brings together a range of literature into one concise volume in a readable format for readers new to the field of diversity and discrimination...Wrench's book provides an informative overview of issues and responses related to diversity management. This book is well worth reading by newcomers to this field, for example, student groups, researchers, policy makers and consultants, or for those interested in a European context to diversity management.' Emerald journal: Women in Management Review (now Gender in Management)

Book Information
ISBN 9780367603755
Author John Wrench
Format Paperback
Page Count 166
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 453g