World Day for Cultural Diversity

Diversity as the basis for creativity and innovation

May 20, 2022 | MELINA SPYCHER

May 21 is the "World Day of Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development" and was established in 2002 by UNESCO ("United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization"). Cultural diversity is lived and supported at Empa as it contributes significantly to the success of the institution.

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Diversity at Empa has many faces. Image: Empa
The core mission of UNESCO is to promote education, science and culture as well as communication and information. The aim of this day is to deepen our understanding of the values of cultural diversity and to foster an open and unbiased exchange.
Success in science and technology thanks to diversity
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André Schmid. Image: Empa

"At Empa, different people with diverse concepts of life from various cultural backgrounds work together in research and development. This diversity is a crucial part of the nurturing ground, on which creativity, innovation and ultimately our success thrives."

André Schmid, Head of HR

The concept of cultural diversity can be defined in a rather broad way. At Empa, diversity can be encountered in many different ways – including cultural diversity with regard to the different origins, nationalities or religious affiliations of the employees. We see this diversity as a great asset.
An open culture of respect
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Patricia Nitzsche. Image: Empa

"Our more than 1,000 employees from over 50 nations bring with them cultural and personal diversity. A culture of mutual respect is thus just as important as innovation and creativity."

Patricia Nitzsche, Deputy Head of HR

To commemorate this day the Competence Center for Diversity & Inclusion at Empa published a webpage dedicated to diversity with information around the concept in general, brochures with insights into different cultures, input on multicultural awareness, and much more.
Information

Melina Spycher
Competence Center Diversity & Inclusion
Tel +41 58 765 4062
melina.spycher@empa.ch

Editor / Media contact
Amanda Caracas
Communication
Tel +41 58 765 60 59
Links

Empa Diversity website
UNESCO World Day for Cultural Diversity
UNESCO Website

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