Leadership and global diversity management: challenges and solutions through participatory theater framework

This chapter examines the challenges of applying effective global diversity management (GDM) and suggests solutions by introducing a comprehensive approach to leadership, the Participatory Theater Framework (PTF). We discuss how traditional leadership approaches have overlooked the role of all organizational members in shaping leadership outcomes. We propose PTF as an inclusive leadership framework that recognizes the agency of all individuals. PTF views leadership as a multilevel process unfolding at individual, subgroup, and group levels. It emphasizes concepts such as individual agency, voice, and multilevel participation as core for effective GDM. We analyze the strengths and limitations of top-down and bottom-up approaches to GDM, proposing an integrated approach based on the insights from PTF as well as solutions such as encouraging multilevel participation, nurturing individual agency, and amplifying diverse voices. The chapter concludes that PTF provides a nuanced understanding of leading diverse global workforces. By incorporating PTF principles into their GDM initiatives, organizations can build inclusive cultures that leverage diversity as a strategic asset.