Law firm Dentons, retailer Amazon and banking organisation HSBC have been named as some of Stonewall’s top 100 global employers for 2023.
The LGBTQ+ charity creates the list from its Global Workplace Equality Index, a voluntary benchmarking tool that helps multinational employers measure their progress in supporting LGBTQ+ inclusion at work. Those that make the list are supported with in-depth feedback to build a robust and tailored action plan to improve year by year. This year, Stonewall found that 35% of those that also made the list last year scored higher than previously.
Employers can win a bronze, silver or gold award for their inclusive practices, with criteria including workplace policy, inclusion of LGBTQ+ employee network groups, supporting talent and development of LGBTQ+ staff, safe travel policies, supply chain vetting, human rights work, and LGBTQ+ advocacy.
They are also judged on community engagement initiatives that educate leaders and stakeholders on how to champion LGBTQ+ communities and their rights, both within the workplace, and externally.
Dentons received a gold award due to its commitment and courage in supporting LGBTQ+ rights and its partnership with Polish charity Equaversity. This was to ensure trans and HIV-positive Ukrainians had access to medical supplies and to support trans and non-binary Ukrainians to safely leave the country following Russia’s invasion.
Other employers that received gold awards are:
- Baker McKenzie
- Capgemini
- Clifford Chance
- Fidelity International
- Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer
- GSK
- Herbert Smith Freehills
Leanne MacMillan, director of global at Stonewall, said: “We’re delighted to announce this year’s Global Workplace Equality Index as we recognise the incredible work that workplaces across the globe do to advance LGBTQ+ inclusion at work and to advocate for better protection. Inclusive workplaces are vital in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in an increasingly divided and hostile world, where LGBTQ+ lives are under increasing threat and scrutiny.
“By ensuring that LGBTQ+ staff are free to thrive as themselves, these employers are helping create a safer and more inclusive world. We’re proud to recognise and celebrate their achievements.”