The parties to the charter commit to recognising, appreciating and promoting the diversity of their staff, customers and business partners – independent of age, gender, disability, race, religion, nationality, ethnic origins, sexual orientation and identity. The basis for this is the recognition that companies enjoy commercial success only when they take advantage of the opportunities provided by diversity.
Dr. Uwe Franke, CEO of Deutsche BP and one of the instigators of the Charter of Diversity, explained: “It is about creating and changing perceptions and developing expertise. The Charter is intended primarily to motivate, and not to regulate.”
With today’s signing, 42 campaigners have joined the initiative. It thus affects 2.7 million employees. In support of the Charter, Minister of State Böhmer initiated the campaign and competiton series for “Diversity as an opportunity” in August 2007. It aims to direct greater attention towards the economic potential of people with immigrant backgrounds. Federal Chancellor Dr. Angela Merkel has become the campaign’s patron.