Accenture has announced the removal of its global Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion (DEI) targets following an internal policy evaluation. This move aligns with a growing trend among corporations reconsidering their DEI commitments in light of Donald Trump’s second term as U.S. President.

Corporate Shift in DEI Commitments

Accenture joins tech giants like Google and Meta in scaling back DEI initiatives. However, companies such as Apple and Cisco have reaffirmed their dedication to diversity efforts, highlighting a divided corporate response. This divergence reflects broader shifts within the Tech sector, where ESG (Environment, Social, and Governance) commitments are evolving and becoming increasingly polarized by geography.

GlobalData notes that while ESG goals remain integral, companies are adjusting the pace and focus of their initiatives, influenced by geopolitical uncertainties and economic challenges. “The market is moving from faith to facts,” says Robert Pritchard, Principal Analyst at GlobalData. “Academic proof of ESG’s benefits must now translate into commercial proof, and the Trump administration's policies are accelerating this transition.”

Accenture’s Pragmatic Response?

Accenture's decision may be seen as a pragmatic reaction to the evolving political and corporate environment, particularly amid a wave of Executive Orders from the White House. Despite this shift, Accenture’s 360° Value Report still emphasizes inclusion and diversity as key pillars, aiming to support clients in achieving progress in these areas.

Interestingly, Inclusion & Diversity remains one of the six ‘vital dimensions’ in Accenture’s 360° Value Meter, a sentiment echoed across many sectors. The current landscape suggests a re-evaluation of ESG and DEI strategies, focusing on measurable commercial value rather than symbolic commitments.

While the era of DEI tick-box exercises may be fading, this shift does not diminish DEI’s potential value. Instead, it marks a new phase focused on impactful, commercially justified implementation.