Assessing the Impact of Inclusion Strategies on the Department of Defense Civilian Workforce

Publication Date

9-11-2025

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Public Personnel Management

DOI

10.1177/00910260251366452

Abstract

This article evaluates the effects of the Department of Defense’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Strategic Plan on civilian perceptions of inclusion by utilizing data from the Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey conducted between 2021 and 2023. Through statistical analyses—including t-tests, regression analysis, and difference-in-differences models—results indicate improved perceptions of inclusion in 2023 compared to 2021. However, older employees and those considering leaving the organization report lower levels of perceived inclusion, while marginalized groups show only limited statistically significant gains. These findings emphasize the need for sustained leadership, structured accountability, and tailored implementation strategies to navigate complex dynamics and promote inclusivity. They also highlight the time needed for DEIA initiatives to demonstrate their impact.

Keywords

inclusive workforce strategies, diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey

Department

Political Science

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