Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Reflections on Gender

ABSTRACT This paper is a response to the current backlash to diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, with a particular focus on gender. The paper begins with a brief description of some of the central features of feminist economics, providing a useful conceptual backdrop to the remaining sections. It then makes both the equity and efficiency arguments for gender diversity, drawing on a wealth of evidence in the field. A description of diversity in the economics profession in South Africa then follows, with reflections on why women's continued under‐representation in the discipline is problematic. Finally, the paper suggests ways in which economists themselves can respond to some of these issues.