BJC Big C Group, also known as Berli Jucker Public Company Limited (BJC), and Big C Supercenter Public Company Limited, hosted an international conference titled "Business, Gender Diversity, and the Path Ahead." The conference highlighted the significance of equity and promoted gender equality in society. It featured inspiring and experienced keynote speakers aiming to raise awareness among the public and seek solutions to implement laws, regulations, and policies regarding gender diversity in Thailand and worldwide. This collaborative effort involved the public sector, private enterprises, educational institutions, and the social sector to align frameworks with government strategic plans and policies.
Aswin Techajareonvikul, Executive Chairman of BJC Group, stated, "Gender equality is gaining attention worldwide. There is a positive trend towards respecting and embracing gender diversity. In the past, Thailand predominantly admired 'Male Leadership' in both family and workplace settings, resulting in an imbalance of gender representation in high-level positions. Additionally, individuals within the LGBTQ+ community faced challenges in advancing professionally or expressing themselves freely due to societal pressures."
Reflecting on these issues, "Business, Gender Diversity, and the Path Ahead" aimed to propose frameworks to elevate the significance of gender equality and expression within organisations in Thailand, aligning them with global standards to achieve UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The event was presided over by Sretha Thavisin, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, who participated in a panel discussion announcing government policies aimed at advancing the Marriage Equality Act. This legislation aims to grant legal rights for engagement, marriage, as well as roles and status within families for same-gender couples, ensuring equal rights comparable to heterosexual couples, thus fostering familial ties and societal balance.
BJC Big C Group is committed to promoting diversity in the workplace, focusing on providing comprehensive benefits and personnel development without prejudice based on gender or other factors. Recruitment processes prioritise attitudes, thinking, and skills, disregarding gender discrimination or physical limitations. The organisation's primary focus remains on staff performance, leading to recognition as one of the "Top 50 Companies in Thailand 2024." Ranked 12th and awarded for the third consecutive year, BJC Big C is lauded for its policies promoting diversity in staff support and open-mindedness towards careers, positions, religions, ages, genders, and thinking frameworks.
Support measures include:
- Paternity leave for male employees to support spouses and children after childbirth.
- Leave policy for gender transition operations.
- Leave for marriage (all genders).
- Leave for foster care (all genders).
- Leave for spouse funeral (all genders).
- Leave for hospital care for spouse (all genders).
"As of our survey ending February 16, 2024, 40% of BJC Big C group employees identify as LGBTQ+. Based on feedback from 9,852 respondents, BJC Big C is recognised as a safe working environment where LGBTQ+ individuals are accepted and encouraged to express their identities. We value diversity and welcome various working styles among all groups. Our commitment extends beyond promoting gender equality within our staff; we advocate for diversity values in society to raise awareness and foster understanding of the importance of equality, fairness, and freedom. Our ultimate goal is to reduce discrimination and create balance within our organisation and society," concluded Aswin.
