61% of accountancy and finance professionals from across the world say they work in an environment free from harassment and discrimination, according to a new report by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.
73% of the 360 respondents in Ireland said they believed this to be the case, with 18% agreeing 'partially', 6% disagreeing and 4% saying they were unsure.
According to the research, 76% of Irish respondents said they believe the profession is inclusive, where people who join are treated equally.
This compares with 67% in the rest of Western Europe, and 69% in Central and Eastern Europe.
Just over a fifth said the profession has a diversity issue that needs to be addressed – one of the lowest results in the global survey.
The report suggests that there is no basis for complacency, with 51% of Irish respondents saying the profession should do more to promote diversity and inclusion amongst its membership.
Caitriona Allis, head of ACCA Ireland said ‘Fundamentally we need to appreciate that the diversity agenda embraces a wide range of issues within society, and they need to be seen in the round.
"What we see from this report, is that our members have a strong sense of advocating for the profession, and they work hard to lead by example.
"They are keen to engage and make a difference, and they want to do more to lead inclusion," she said.
