Company Culture

Complex policy challenges require innovative and comprehensive solutions that can only be achieved with a diverse workforce. CSIS, a top-rated international policy organization, is uniquely positioned to serve as a thought leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Our goal is to foster an inclusive culture where all employees can thrive across the organization.

Employee Resource Groups

Employee resource groups (ERGs) nurture a sense of belonging for full-time staff and interns. These groups create a safe space for employees to bring their authentic selves to work and provide career development opportunities for members. The ERGs at CSIS are integral to developing a culture of belonging, bolstering employee engagement, and building a sense of security.

Groups are comprised of employees who share a characteristic, whether it is gender, ethnicity, religious affiliation, lifestyle, or interest. CSIS is proud to support six employee-led groups with the shared goal of enriching the workplace environment aligned with CSIS’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) objectives.

Annual Survey Report 

CSIS publishes an Annual Survey Report to share our approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and organizational culture. The report shares updated representation data, reflects on the previous year’s accomplishments, and informs DLIA’s strategic priorities. This annual practice is a critical component of our approach to increasing transparency and accountability. 

Trainings to Advance DEI

DLIA leverages its internal partnerships with the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy and Human Resources to produce trainings on DEI issues. These trainings provide skill-building opportunities and include topics such as unconscious bias awareness, tackling imposter syndrome, managing up, and allyship in the workplace.

In line with the workforce diversity strategic pillar, DLIA offers mandatory monthly trainings for all hiring managers to ensure equitable hiring practices. CSIS aims to attract the most diverse talent in the policy community.

Commemorative Month Events 

CSIS is committed to celebrating the culture and contributions of the diverse communities in the United States while also recognizing the challenges these communities face in today's political, social, and economic landscape. In keeping with this commitment, DLIA launched the Commemorative Months initiative in 2021. These events foster a sense of community among employees and create opportunities for cross-collaboration within the institution. 

Scholarly Talks 

Scholarly talks are closed-door conversations between distinguished researchers, experts, practitioners, and CSIS staff. The goal of these conversations is to raise awareness around the intersection of DEI and foreign policy. These engagements allow CSIS to deliver on its commitment to bring diverse perspectives into foreign affairs.

DLIA Advisory Board

The Advisory Board provides feedback and guidance to DLIA on DEI initiatives at the Center. Advisory Board members range in seniority, representing the organizational commitment CSIS made to champion DEI. Staff can access advisory board members through informal and formal channels to share feedback on improving diversity and inclusion at CSIS.