Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Indigeneity in Business in South Asia

This volume provides an intercultural perspective on the current state of research and practice related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and indigeneity (DEII) in South Asia. It features contributions from scholars across the region, focusing on how DEII initiatives are influenced by legislative, political, social, patriarchal, religious, governance, and corporate factors. While much of the existing DEII research has centered on mono-cultural, Western-oriented contexts—often referred to as “WEIRD” (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic) nations—South Asian countries such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka remain under-researched. These multicultural developing economies, with diverse educational, democratic, and industrialization levels, have largely been neglected. This collection seeks to examine the applicability and relevance of current DEII knowledge within this distinct regional context. The editors adopt a relational, multilevel framework, emphasizing that effective diversity management cannot be separated from its sociocultural and institutional environment. They explore innovative DEII policies and practices specific to South Asia, reflecting the region’s shared histories, values, beliefs, and colonial legacies. The volume is structured into four sections: social, political, and historical contexts; management policies and practices; the changing nature of work; and leading and managing through DEII, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of nuances across South Asian countries. By capturing the current landscape of DEII policies, practices, and their impacts, the book will be of interest to scholars in HRM, cross-cultural management, and employment relations, particularly those focused on South Asia and the broader Global South.