SEB received the diversity label “Respecting Differences”

On Wednesday, 21 March, the first Estonian enterprises and organisations, for whom diversity is a competitive advantage and important asset, received the diversity label “Respecting Differences”.

The label was awarded to employers who see value in diversity, have a plan in place for addressing diversity and whose working environment provides equal opportunities for all regardless of their differences. Among the recipients of the “Respecting Differences” label were SEB Pank, My City Hotel, Kaubamaja, Swedbank, Estanc, Manpower, Koduekstra, HAVI Logistics, Tieto Eesti, ISS Eesti, Law Firm LMP, Astangu Vocational Rehabilitation Centre, Estonian National Foundation for Civil Society, Helpific, Estonian Ministry of Social Affairs, Estonian Emergency Response Centre and Labour Inspectorate.

The labels were delivered by Jevgeni Ossinovski, the Minister of Health and Labour, according to whom the enterprises who received the diversity label are excellent examples of modern employers who take into account their employees’ special traits in addition to their skills. “Varied work environment and the ability to put different people to work in the name of a common goal is the basis of the success of these companies,” said the Minister.

“The holders of the label are remarkable organisations in all senses – they point out trends and offer solutions,” said Kelly Grossthal, expert of the equal treatment area at the Human Rights Centre. “Respect for differences benefits all parties on the job market, while “respect” being the operative word here.”

The diversity label has been created in cooperation with the Estonian Human Rights Centre and the Ministry of Social Affairs. The label is tied to a diversity agreement already signed by almost a hundred Estonian organisations.