In today’s rapidly changing global landscape, promoting inclusive development is more essential than ever. Inclusion refers to the active and intentional effort to create an environment where everyone, regardless of their background or identity, has equal access to opportunities, resources, and benefits. Inclusive development encompasses all aspects of a society – economic, social, political, and cultural – and requires specific strategies and best practices to ensure success.

Here are some strategies and best practices for promoting inclusive development:

1. Identify and address systemic barriers: Systemic barriers are obstacles that prevent certain groups from having equal access to resources and opportunities. These barriers may be rooted in discrimination, inequality, and exclusion on the basis of race, gender, age, disability, or other factors. In order to promote inclusive development, these barriers need to be identified and addressed. This can be done through policies and programs that address educational, employment, and economic disparities, as well as through awareness-raising and advocacy efforts.

For example, in many developing countries, girls are often denied equal access to education due to cultural and societal norms. To address this systemic barrier, organizations like Plan International have launched campaigns and programs to promote girls’ education and empower them to overcome obstacles and fulfil their potential.

2. Engage marginalized communities: For inclusive development to succeed, it’s important to engage and involve marginalized communities in the process. These are often the groups that are most affected by exclusion and have the least access to resources and opportunities. By actively involving them in decision-making, planning, and implementation processes, their voices and perspectives can be heard and their needs can be addressed.

For instance, in India, the Aravind Eye Care System engaged with local communities and created a sustainable model for providing eye care services to underserved rural populations. By partnering with community leaders and training local women as healthcare workers, they were able to reach those who would have otherwise been left behind.

3. Foster diversity and inclusion in the workplace: Inclusive development means creating an environment where people from all backgrounds and identities feel valued, respected, and included. This starts with fostering diversity and inclusion in the workplace. By hiring, promoting, and retaining a diverse workforce, organizations can benefit from a wide range of perspectives, ideas, and experiences, leading to better decision-making and innovation.

For example, EY (Ernst & Young) has implemented various diversity and inclusion initiatives, including hiring practices that focus on diversity and launching employee resource groups for underrepresented communities. This has helped them create a more inclusive work environment and has been recognized as a leader in LGBTQ+ inclusion.

4. Incorporate accessibility and accommodation: Inclusive development also means ensuring that everyone has equal access to services and facilities. This includes physical accessibility for people with disabilities, but also accommodating diverse needs and preferences. This can include providing alternative formats for information, flexible work arrangements, and accommodation for religious or cultural practices.

One example of this is Airbnb’s “Open Doors” initiative, which focuses on making travel and accommodation more accessible for people with disabilities. Through partnerships and technological solutions, they have made listings and experiences more accessible, providing greater opportunities for people of all abilities to travel and explore the world.

In conclusion, promoting inclusive development requires a holistic and intentional approach that addresses systemic barriers, engages marginalized communities, fosters diversity and inclusion, and incorporates accessibility and accommodation. By implementing these strategies and best practices, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. It is a collective responsibility to work towards inclusive development, and it begins with each and every one of us making a conscious effort to promote inclusion in our communities and workplaces. Through our actions, we can create a more just and thriving world for all.