AKD

We believe that everyone working at AKD will only get the best out of themselves if they are allowed to be themselves. That is why having an open, diverse, safe and inclusive environment is important for us. AKD is a place where all employees, regardless of background, gender, sexual orientation, religion, … can thrive and reach their full potential.

To achieve this, AKD has established a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee that is committed to fostering equality, embracing diversity and creating a more inclusive workplace. The committee focuses on themes such as gender, culture, people with disabilities and LGBTQIA+, and develops initiatives that support colleagues, clients and the wider labour market. As part of this commitment, the committee organises a range of activities, including unconscious bias training and a female leadership programme for senior staff, to strengthen awareness and promote equal opportunities across the organisation. In addition, AKD has appointed a specialist in DEI to further drive and implement a broad set of internal and external actions.

AKD’s commitment goes beyond policy. Our firm creates a safe working environment with an internal and external confidential advisor, a pragmatic complaints procedure, and workshops such as “A Safe & Inclusive Workplace”, where social safety and respect are central themes.

In addition, AKD fosters talent development through an external mentoring program that removes barriers and supports employees with career planning and personal growth. Internal initiatives such as Inclusion network events and a DEI communication calendar strengthen mutual connection and understanding.

Outside the organization, AKD actively participates in initiatives that promote inclusion within the legal sector. For example, we have signed the Talent to the Top Charter and the Equal in Legal Diversity & Inclusion Statement, and our firm is a member of multiple initiatives, such as Lequal, Bridges Network and LDIA. These networks provide platforms for knowledge sharing and collaboration to strengthen inclusion within the profession.

AKD also promotes equal opportunities in society through partnerships with Weekendschool Eindhoven and JINC, helping children from disadvantaged neighbourhoods broaden their horizons and improve future prospects. Each year, AKD organizes a diversity event for clients, where current topics are discussed and best practices are shared.

Diversity and inclusion are not only socially desirable but also enhance innovation and decision-making, directly adding value for all our employees and clients. By removing barriers and creating opportunities, AKD builds a culture where talent is central and differences are turned into strengths. This commitment contributes to a fair society and a future-proof legal sector. In this way, AKD makes diversity and inclusion tangible in daily practice: from policy and training to social projects.