ABSTRACT
In this chapter, based on the origin of the term diversity, we explain how and why a diverse governing body can benefit foundations and nonprofit organizations (NPOs), using various approaches (the economic, legal, and equality approaches) from corporate gender diversity management. Reference is also made to the report entitled “Diversity on the Boards of Non-Profit Foundations in Switzerland,” published by the Centre for Philanthropy at the University of Geneva in 2022 (Kratz-Ulmer & Gill, 2022, p. 2). We also show that there could be a gap between approaches to diversity management – or companies’ commitment to diversity – and efforts to ensure effective diversity in practice. In addition, we discuss how corporate governing bodies have become more diverse due to changes in company law in countries neighboring Switzerland. Based on these reflections, we look at whether a similar approach could be used to increase diversity in governing bodies in the philanthropy sector in both Switzerland and neighboring countries.
