Publication: Optimizing Board Effectiveness with Gender Diversity : Are Quotas the Answer?
Date
2011-01
ISSN
Published
2011-01
Author(s)
Durbin, Annemarie
Abstract
Women are underrepresented on corporate
boards but are quotas the answer? Not according to the
author. Annemarie Durbin cites evidence that using quotas to
increase female representation can lead to tokenism,
diminish the overall value of diversity on boards, affect
board dynamics, and potentially lead to diluted commitments
from existing female board directors. She recommends that,
instead of quotas, companies should take a holistic approach
toward improving board nominating criteria and processes,
developing female middle and senior management talent, and
ensuring positive dynamics among diverse board members.
Citation
“Durbin, Annemarie. 2011. Optimizing Board Effectiveness with Gender Diversity : Are Quotas the Answer?. Private Sector Opinion; No. 21. © World Bank, Washington, DC. http://openknowledge.worldbank.org/entities/publication/75c9bf4f-ef75-52d8-b865-a38e876171df License: CC BY-NC-ND 3.0 IGO.”