- Novartis Slovenia has launched Pride Month by flying rainbow flags at its Ljubljana and Mengeš locations to symbolically show its support for the LGBTQI+ community.
- This time, the rainbow flag raising, which draws attention to respect for human rights and equal inclusion in society, was complemented by an event for employees, a conversation with Lia Bordon.
- Novartis is committed to the values of diversity, inclusion and equity, both globally and nationally, which it recognizes as the foundation for innovation and development.
Ljubljana, June 6 2024 - Novartis Slovenia is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and fair workplace where every employee can be who they are without fear of discrimination. In line with its values, the company has been celebrating Pride Month for several years. To show their support, rainbow flags were flown in Ljubljana and Mengeš. This symbolic action draws attention to the importance of respecting the rights of members of the LGBTQI+ community and their equal inclusion in society, and encourages dialogue on this important issue. This was also established among employees through an internal event, a conversation with Lia Bordon.
Novartis is committed to building an inclusive and equitable workplace where every individual is empowered to reach their full potential. With a culture that supports the acceptance of diverse perspectives, they want to provide a place where employees can be curious, empowered and inspired. Only such people can create breakthrough solutions to the world's biggest health challenges and push the boundaries of science.
In addition to the raising of the rainbow flags, which took place this year in Ljubljana in collaboration with Lek, a Sandoz company, the team also organized a conversation with an inspiring guest in the spirit of our shared commitment to creating a respectful and inclusive workplace. As misunderstanding most often stems from a lack of information, they want to bring LGBTQI+ issues to the attention of employees and encourage them to behave in a more inclusive way. "In order to create an environment that provides equal environment for all employees, it is necessary to understand the circumstances and barriers faced by people from minority groups. We are delighted to have had the opportunity to speak with Lia Bordon, a professional trainer, psychotherapist and speaker, who shared her story of new insights and life changes, thus making an important contribution to a better understanding of difference," said Miha Koprivnikar Kranjc, head of the Novartis Employee Resource Group (ERG) LGBTQI+.
Awareness-raising activities and promoting acceptance of different views among Novartis employees in Slovenia are not limited to Pride Month. The company is a signatory to the Diversity Charter Slovenia, a voluntary initiative to promote and implement the values of diversity and inclusion in all parts of the organisation. The Charter, with its principles that guide organisations in promoting diversity, non-discrimination and equal opportunities in the workplace, complements Novartis Slovenia's existing commitments, including the LGBT-friendly company certificate awarded by the City of Ljubljana. Novartis fulfils its commitments through a number of activities, such as participation in the Pride parade, workshops, roundtables, trainings and publications. Raising of the rainbow flag is one of the practices they use to raise awareness about the legal and social situation of the community and to advocate for the elimination of discrimination and the acceptance of difference. Building a fairer and more inclusive world starts with themselves, by creating a safe and supportive environment for all employees, setting an important example for the wider public.