US EDI Backlash Could Impact UK Workplaces, Experts Warn

As backlash against equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) efforts grows in the United States, experts are warning of a ripple effect that could soon hit British workplaces.

In the wake of anti-DEI legislation and corporate rollbacks across multiple U.S. states, some UK companies are reportedly “pausing” or “reassessing” their own EDI strategies — despite no such legal pressures in Britain.

A recent survey cited in Corporate Adviser revealed that over a third of UK employers are scaling back or slowing down their EDI efforts. Some fear being caught in political crossfire or being accused of being “too woke,” echoing rhetoric coming out of the U.S.

But EDI advocates argue that retreating now would be a damaging step backwards. “EDI isn’t just a moral imperative — it’s a business one,” said one HR leader. “Diverse teams perform better, are more innovative, and help companies reflect the communities they serve.”

The article notes that while the UK still leads in areas like gender pay gap reporting and inclusive hiring practices, the influence of American business culture and political narratives can’t be ignored.

At We Belong News, we believe inclusion should never be a trend or a checkbox. It’s a long-term commitment to fairness, equity and creating spaces where everyone feels they belong.

The UK has an opportunity to lead, not follow. And in a time of rising division, staying the course on EDI might just be the leadership our workplaces — and our world — need most.