Diversity and Inclusion Practices as a Booster for Firm Sustainability: Evidence from the Czech Automotive Sector

Abstract The paper investigates implemented diversity and inclusion practices’ effect on firm sustainability. The study covers a sample of small and middle-sized automotive firms in Czechia, where diversity and inclusion practices have been implemented in relation to firm sustainability. The paper’s methodology is based on theoretical models of diversity management and firm sustainability in the automotive sector. The paper provides evidence that a low number of firms in the Czech Republic in the automotive sector have been rolling out any diversity and inclusion measures but at the same time, the majority of the selected firms have been considering the development and implementation of human resource management practices in the area of diversity and inclusion as a vital part of attracting more investors and aligning with the global sustainable goals of the United Nations. Moreover, the paper brings evidence that the automotive firms in the Czech Republic are following global and regional trends on diversity and inclusion as an important step for a sustainable strategic development.