A comprehensive book on EDI. The sections about the definitions and fundamentals of EDI are highly informative for anyone interested in the topic.
The overall book is a great introduction to EDI, discrimination, and EDI theories.

Book Review: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace: International Contexts, Policies and Practices by Ciarán McFadden

Ciarán McFadden’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace provides a comprehensive and timely exploration of one of the most critical topics facing modern organizations. For students and practitioners alike, this textbook offers a balanced mix of theory and practical application, making it a valuable resource for those seeking to navigate the increasingly complex landscape of diversity management.

Structure and Content
McFadden successfully integrates historical context with contemporary developments, allowing readers to understand the evolution of equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in workplaces worldwide. The book begins by outlining key concepts and theories, making them accessible to readers from various academic backgrounds. It also draws from disciplines such as sociology, law, and human resources, enriching the discussion around topics like intersectionality, allyship, and diversity resistance. These themes are analyzed in the context of organizational practices, giving readers the tools to critically assess EDI policies and their impact.

The global approach is particularly useful, as McFadden highlights different legislative frameworks and challenges faced by organizations across regions. Case studies from well-known companies like General Motors and Tata Consultancy Services provide real-world examples, allowing readers to see how theory translates into practice. This global scope makes the book especially relevant for students and professionals looking to implement or improve EDI initiatives in multinational organizations.

Key Strengths
One of the key strengths of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace is its engagement with intersectionality, a concept that recognizes the interconnectedness of various social identities such as race, gender, and class. McFadden doesn’t just touch on the surface of diversity issues but dives deeper into how these identities can compound discrimination in the workplace. The book also addresses the gap between rhetoric and reality in organizational diversity efforts, highlighting how many companies struggle to move beyond superficial diversity statements.

Additionally, the inclusion of "often misunderstood" features and practical activities helps to clarify misconceptions and fosters critical thinking. This pedagogical approach is further enhanced by debate questions that challenge readers to think critically about EDI issues, making the book not only an academic resource but also a practical guide for future professionals.

The supporting online resources, including lecture slides and long-form case studies, add extra value for both students and instructors. These materials make it easier for readers to engage with the content in a more interactive and practical way, further reinforcing the lessons from the text.

Critique
While the book is robust in many areas, its comprehensive nature may feel overwhelming to readers who are new to EDI concepts. Some may find the breadth of topics covered difficult to fully digest in one go. Furthermore, the focus on global examples, while a strength, could lead to a lack of deep focus on the specific cultural nuances of certain regions. However, these minor critiques do not detract from the overall value of the book.

Conclusion
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace is a must-read for HR and business students, as well as professionals tasked with managing diversity in organizations. McFadden expertly blends theory with practice, providing readers with the tools they need to both understand and implement effective EDI strategies. The global perspective, paired with rich case studies and practical resources, ensures that this textbook will remain a vital resource for years to come.