Statement from Prof. Justin Green, President and CEO, and Irene Lungu, Chair of Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Month of Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management
June 2025
This June, the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management (Global Alliance) reaffirms its enduring commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) across the global communication profession.
Diversity, equity, equality and inclusion are essential to the integrity and future of public relations and communication. These are not secondary or political concerns. They are core to the way our profession serves society, builds trust, and drives ethical communication outcomes.
“We are seeing increasing pressure on the values of fairness and inclusion in many parts of the world. That is exactly why now is the time to be clear and firm in our purpose,” said Prof. Justin Green, President and CEO of Global Alliance.
As communication professionals, we work within communities, cultures, governments and organisations of all types. Our work connects people and ideas. Our responsibility is to do that work in ways that are inclusive, respectful, equitable and informed by lived experience.
Across regions, we recognise that DEI principles are being challenged. In some countries, we see political pushback. In others, the resources for DEI initiatives are being cut. At times, professionals are asked to stay silent rather than speak up for inclusion. These are difficult realities, but they are also the reason we must remain committed to progress. The Global Alliance will continue to advocate for the rights of all individuals to participate fully and safely in the life of their communities, workplaces and institutions.
We are proud to announce the development of a new Global Principles-Based DEI Framework, which will be delivered over the coming months. This framework will offer clear guidance and structure for all member organisations. It will support the development of practical DEI policies and initiatives while allowing for regional flexibility and cultural adaptation.
This work is built from the ground up through a process of consultation with members and leaders across sectors and regions. It is shaped by the lived realities of practitioners and guided by the shared values of the Global Alliance. These values include collaboration, integrity, innovation, professionalism and openness. These are not abstract ideals. They are essential qualities that define ethical and effective communication in every context.
“This framework will provide our members with a practical and principled foundation to strengthen their own DEI programmes, or to begin building them where needed,” said Irene Lungu, Chair of DEI Month. “It is about making sure we can all move forward with confidence and clarity.”
In addition to the policy framework, the Global Alliance will deliver education, skills-building and professional development through collaboration with member organisations who already have advanced DEI programmes in place. Many of our members are leading change in their countries and industries. By working together, we can learn from what works and lift the standard globally.
This collaboration will ensure that professionals across our network can access resources, tools and support to strengthen their capacity to implement DEI in practice. It also ensures that knowledge and leadership are shared, rather than duplicated or soiled.
Our DEI approach includes a strong focus on intersectionality. We understand that people’s experiences are shaped by multiple identities including gender, race, ability, sexual orientation, age and socio-economic status. Our policies and programmes must reflect this complexity, not ignore it.
We are also committed to accessibility, digital inclusion and ethical use of technology. These are central to equity in a connected world. That is why our framework aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and integrates key principles of the UN Global Digital Compact.
We recognise that this work must be measurable. The Global Alliance will encourage its member organisations and professionals to track progress and provide feedback on implementation of DEI programmes and initiatives.
“This is not about a set of words on paper. It is about setting the conditions for real, sustained impact in how we work and how we lead,” said Irene. “It is also about standing with those who continue to advance DEI despite significant barriers.”
To every communication professional in our network: your role in this work is vital. Whether you are shaping policy, leading campaigns or mentoring new talent, you have the power to foster a profession that values fairness, respects difference and promotes belonging.
To our member organisations: your leadership sets the tone. Your commitment is what ensures this work moves from aspiration to reality.
The Global Alliance remains firmly focused on building a profession where diversity, equity, equality and inclusion are understood, embraced and reflected in everything we do. This is our purpose and our shared commitment.
Prof. Justin Green
President and CEO
Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management
Irene Lungu
Chair, Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Month 2025
Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management