What Drives Real, Lasting DEI Impact?
5 factors that drive DEI efforts
If you’re a leader looking to accelerate your organization’s progress on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) — this new report from the World Economic Forum (WEF) should be required reading.
→ Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Lighthouses 2025 is the WEF’s latest edition in their ongoing effort to spotlight companies that are moving beyond talk — and delivering real, measurable results.
In this 2025 report, WEF highlights 8 companies as global Lighthouses of DEI progress, along with 7 additional Highlights across industries, geographies, and challenges.
But what really caught my attention is why these companies are succeeding.
The WEF identified 5 common factors that drive DEI efforts with real business impact:
- Nuanced understanding of root causes. Too many organizations skip this step. The most successful initiatives start by digging deep into the systemic barriers within their own walls.
- Meaningful definition of success. This goes beyond representation goals and focuses on broader outcomes like belonging, retention, and advancement.
- Accountable and invested business leaders. Not just HR. Not just DEI teams. These companies expect leaders at every level to own and drive DEI outcomes.
- Solutions designed for context. No copy-paste programs here. Every solution is built for the company’s culture, challenges, and workforce realities.
- Rigorous tracking and course correction. Measurement is non-negotiable. And when results fall short? These companies adjust — not abandon — their efforts.
Why This Matters Right Now
In a world where DEI efforts are facing increased scrutiny and polarization, the WEF’s research is a powerful reminder: real change is possible — when we lead with clarity, accountability, and action.
This report is also a rich resource, with practical case studies from companies like Accenture, Bank al Etihad, LVMH, Schneider Electric, Teck Resources, Deutsche Post DHL, Wipro, Siemens, and others that are showing what’s possible.
From gender equity to LGBTQ+ inclusion to driving cultural transformation — their stories are worth studying.
Ready to Accelerate Action in Your Organization?
- I encourage you to read the full WEF Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Lighthouses 2025 report and discuss it at your next staff meeting.
- Take a look at the Five Factors for Success (page 10) to pressure-test your own DEI strategy.
- Check out my Corporate 30-Point Readiness Assessment along with the 10 Metrics Every Leader Should be Tracking white papers for more ideas on accountability and the Integrated Women’s Leadership Plan for strategy ideas.
- Finally, check out the full list of companies recognized — there’s no better way to learn than from those leading the way.
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