Affirmative Action
Policies giving preferential treatment to underrepresented groups to address historical inequalities.
Also: positive discrimination · reservation policy
Definition
Affirmative action refers to policies and programs that take proactive steps to increase the representation of historically underrepresented or disadvantaged groups—such as women, racial minorities, or persons with disabilities—in employment, education, and other areas. These measures can include setting representation goals, targeted recruitment, preferential consideration for equally qualified candidates, or reservation systems. Affirmative action is legally mandated in some jurisdictions and voluntary in others.
Example
“The government ministry's affirmative action policy required all senior management shortlists to include at least 30% women candidates, which over two years increased female representation in leadership from 18% to 34%.”
Synonyms
- positive discrimination
- positive action
- equity measures
- proactive representation
Antonyms / Opposites
- meritocracy
- equal treatment