Diversifying the International Development Space

Presented by International Public Service Association (IPSA)

The field of international development faces continued demands to diversify its workforce and draw upon the experiences of typically underrepresented populations, including people of color, people with disabilities, women, religious minorities and those in the LGBTQ community. Further, when minorities join the workforce, the field as a whole needs to understand the unique needs and considerations for certain identities. For instance, if I’m a gay man traveling to a country unwelcoming to the LGBTQ community, do I create a story of a fake wife or girlfriend back home? If I’m an unmarried woman living with a partner who works in a conservative area, do I need to avoid this conversation? If I use a wheelchair, how should I prepare for work in non-accessible sites?

This panel will highlight the points to consider for people of many identities working in this field, and will explore how to both broaden the kinds of candidates drawn to this field and support diverse staff, particularly those working and traveling abroad.