Welcome to the migration seminar!

Planning seminar: Selective Translation of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion under CSRD in Swedish Firms

Speaker

Jiyoung Han, Doctoral candidate in International Migration and Ethnic Relations (IMER), Malmö University

Abstract

Growing demands for transparency around workplace inequalities have intensified attention to how organizations report on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) introduces new requirements for workforce and diversity disclosures, reshaping expectations for DEI reporting in Swedish organizations. Yet what DEI means in a context shaped by egalitarian norms continues to be contested. In Sweden, where equality data based on self identification remains largely absent, DEI reporting takes on a distinctive form that differs markedly from international expectations. This study examines 2024 corporate sustainability reports from Swedish companies, supplemented by insights from roundtable discussions with HR and sustainability professionals. The analysis shows that corporate DEI reporting remains heavily gender centered, while metrics concerning underrepresented groups protected under Swedish anti discrimination law—particularly ethnic background and disability—are largely absent, with disclosure rates at or below five percent. Drawing on institutional theory and critical accounting perspectives, the study argues that these gaps are not primarily technical, but institutional and normative. Swedish colour-blind norms, regulatory ambiguity, and resistance to categorization shape what becomes measurable and legitimate, rendering certain inequalities invisible. The study further demonstrates that EU data protection and anti discrimination frameworks do not prohibit the collection of equality data, and that reluctance is better explained by national traditions.

Short bio

Jiyoung Han is a PhD candidate in International Migration and Ethnic Relations (IMER) at Malmö University, Sweden. Before entering academia, she worked in international humanitarian organizations and multinational corporations as an HR professional, focusing on people management and organizational development.

Her research interests include diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), migration, citizenship, belonging, and equality data. Drawing on both professional and academic experience, her work examines how organizations and institutions translate and measure diversity in different social and regulatory contexts.

Attendance

This is a hybrid seminar, you are welcome to connect via Zoom or join us at MIM seminar room, floor 9, Niagara, Nordenskiöldsgatan 1. To attend on campus, please gather by the reception area at 13.05.
If you have any questions, send an email mim@mau.se

Zoom

Will be available closer to the seminar date.

Upcoming seminars at MIM

Contact