#Japan #Tokyo #Diversity #LGBTQ+ #Bell System 24

Bell System 24's Commitment to LGBTQ+ Inclusion

In a remarkable achievement, Bell System 24 Holdings, headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo, has received the highest honor of 'Gold' certification in the 'PRIDE Index 2025' for LGBTQ+ initiatives. This marks the seventh consecutive year that the organization has met all the criteria outlined in this vital index, which evaluates workplaces for their LGBTQ+ inclusivity.

Understanding the PRIDE Index

The PRIDE Index, established in 2016 by 'work with Pride', serves as the first evaluation metric in Japan to promote a supportive working environment for sexual minorities including LGBTQ+ individuals. The index assesses companies and organizations based on five key criteria: Policy (declaration of action), Representation (community involvement), Inspiration (awareness activities), Development (human resource strategies), and Engagement/Empowerment (social contributions and external relationships). Organizations that qualify receive scores that determine their rank as Gold, Silver, or Bronze.

Fostering Diversity as Core Management Resource

At Bell System 24, human resources are considered the most critical asset for the company. The firm places a strong emphasis on diversity, defining 'diversity of people and work styles' as a paramount issue in its materiality framework. Following this principle, the company has established policies that support LGBTQ+ employees working without fear of discrimination. In 2019, Bell System 24 implemented human resources regulations specifically designed for employees with same-sex partners and common-law partners.

Additionally, the company formed the LGBTQ+ & ALLY community with employees who advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Since 2021, they have been celebrating 'Bell Pride Month' in alignment with the global observance of Pride Month, actively implementing a variety of initiatives to enhance visibility and awareness.

Promoting Understanding Through Dialogue

This fiscal year, a series of discussions were held among young employees and ALLY supporters to foster understanding and dialogue. These meetings create spaces for sharing different generational perspectives on workplace and societal issues, cultivating new insights and awareness. Furthermore, an exchange of opinions between the management and LGBTQ+ individuals has also taken place. To share these insights throughout the organization, summaries of discussions are published on the internal intranet, ensuring wide accessibility to all employees.

Moreover, new training programs aimed at enhancing understanding of LGBTQ+ issues have been introduced to new employees, along with e-learning sessions titled 'D&I Training / LGBTQ+' for all staff members. These initiatives aim to deepen knowledge about LGBTQ+ and SOGI (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity) issues, covering essential topics such as support policies and harassment prevention in the workplace.

Recognition for Efforts in Diversity

These comprehensive measures to foster an inclusive environment led to Bell System 24 attaining 'Gold' status in the PRIDE Index. This achievement reflects the company’s commitment to providing a workplace where each employee can thrive and discover new possibilities.

With a value proposition centered on the motto, 'A place where every individual can be themselves and meet new possibilities,' Bell System 24 continues to strive for an organizational culture that respects and celebrates diverse values.

Conclusion

For further details about Bell System 24 and their continued commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion, visit their official website here. Since establishing Japan's first formal call center service in 1982, the company has continuously evolved into a comprehensive BPO partner, fostering connections between various businesses and consumers while implementing cutting-edge technology and talent development.