A recent study co-led by the University of Oxford, UCL Policy Lab, and More in Common has found that a majority of Britons continue to support equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives. The survey, which included responses from over 4,000 people across Britain, indicates that while 52% view EDI positively—a decrease from 62% in 2024—public attitudes remain generally favorable.
The research follows the "Finding a Balance" report released in March 2024 and suggests that more people now take a neutral stance on EDI compared to last year. Despite this shift, views on whether EDI leads to fairer outcomes have stayed consistent: 48% believe these initiatives make things fairer, and nearly half consider them a good use of resources.
Professor Tim Soutphommasane, Chief Diversity Officer at the University of Oxford and co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in EDI efforts. “It is vital that EDI is conducted in a way that is for everyone, and is seen to be for everyone. This can be done by anchoring EDI in values of respect and equal opportunity,” he said.
The findings show limited public interest in following the United States’ example of reducing EDI initiatives within public bodies; only 37% support such measures. Even fewer respondents—23%—favor rolling back EDI efforts in the private sector. In contrast, more than half (56%) believe businesses and other institutions should maintain or increase their commitment to EDI.
The report also notes an increasing perception among respondents that some groups benefit from EDI at others’ expense and highlights growing political divides on these issues. Regarding higher education specifically, most members of the public do not see EDI as restricting free speech or undermining academic excellence; 56% think such policies do not compromise standards.
Recommendations from the report include focusing on shared values like respect and equal opportunity to build broader support for EDI programs. It also suggests prioritizing tailored and voluntary approaches within workplaces and paying greater attention to socioeconomic disadvantage.
Professor Soutphommasane commented further: “A lot has changed in the global political landscape, and the shifts in British public sentiment reflect this. There remains a majority of the British public who believe EDI is a good thing. But advocates and supporters of EDI will need to refocus and refine their efforts. It is vital that EDI is conducted in a way that is for everyone, and is seen to be for everyone. This can be done by anchoring EDI in values of respect and equal opportunity.”