Diversity, Inclusion and non-Discrimination for Europe’s Insurance Workers

On the occasion of International Women’s Day 2022, UNI Europa Finance is proud to have agreed a landmark Joint Declaration with the European insurance employers committing to a diverse and inclusive sector free from discrimination of any kind.

“Diversity is key for a sustainable development. The Social Partners recognise and value all different backgrounds, knowledge, skills, needs and experiences, and encourage using these differences to create a cohesive, diverse and effective workforce,” said Michael Budolfsen, UNI Europa Finance President.

With this Joint Declaration, the Social Partners encourage European insurance companies to ensure all employees are treated equally, with respect and dignity – regardless of factors such as gender, age, disability, and including LGBTI+, trans and intersex workers.

Equal opportunities must be guaranteed throughout a worker’s career – from recruitment to pay, from access to training to promotion and career development.

“We want to promote a safe and inclusive work environment where diversity is regarded as a source of enrichment and where the rights of all groups are fully respected and protected,” said Vic Van Kerrebroeck, UNI Europa Finance Coordinator for the Insurance Social Dialogue.

The Social Partners also reaffirm their commitment to fighting discrimination in all its forms. “Any instances of work-related violence, abuse and harassment – including psychological and sexual harassment – will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” said Maureen Hick, UNI Europa Finance Director, adding, “No worker should be sanctioned or dismissed for having been subject to and/or reported such acts.”

UNI Europa Equal Opportunities supports and welcomes this excellent initiative which is all the more timely as the issues are key work priority areas for the EU institutions and decision-makers.

“The European Insurance Social Partners have produced a robust Joint Declaration and an actionable tool to help trade unions and workers in Europe’s insurance sector in their fight for diversity, inclusion and non-discrimination,” said Amel Selma Djemail, UNI Europa Equal Opportunities Director.

“This International Women’s Day, UNI Equal Opportunities is focussing on the gender dimension of occupational health and safety and the on-going battle against the financial and health inequalities faced in particular by women every day,” she added. “This Joint Declaration accurately reflects the need to identity any risks and put in place protective measures to ensure a safe and healthy work environment for all.”