It is not always easy to ensure that the civil service is representative of the society it serves. Depending on cultural and economic factors, national administrations often act in a segmented way when it comes to diversity and inclusion.

In its application of the measure¹ that was at the top of the list in the 2014 Federal Coalition Agreement, the Belgian Federal Administration stands out for its comprehensive approach that takes into account all types of differences, regardless of how visible they are.

Several bodies (steering group, project group and working groups) now form the "Federal Diversity" network, which supports and guides projects that are part of a three-year strategic plan, ensuring their successful implementation.


 

The network's efforts therefore cover all of the actions and awareness campaigns carried out in the following areas:

• People with a migration background

• People with disabilities

• Gender parity

• Sexual orientation, gender identity and expression

• People in precarious situations and/or who are socially excluded
 

Initiatives that have actively contributed to respect for everyone and enrichment for all include:

• The beproud! network which was launched in 2016 after the publication of a study that demonstrated how, despite progressive national regulations, some officers still experience problems vis-à-vis acceptance of their sexual orientation. The project was supported by ministerial cabinets.

• The "experts in experience" initiative, which initially consisted of hiring people who had themselves experienced a situation of poverty to assist citizens in difficulty in their administrative procedures. Although this represented a challenge in terms of HR management, it has been deployed across all federal public services.

Spotlighting diversity projects, both large and small, by rewarding them for their efforts is the goal of the "Diversity Awards", the 4th edition of which will be held at the end of this year.

¹ "The Government shall take measures to reflect the diversity of society in the composition of the workforce. It shall also ensure the diversified composition of selection panels and the neutrality of selection procedures."