Navigating DEI in a Shifting Political Landscape: A Study of Corporate Strategy and Stakeholder Reactions Post-2024 U.S. Elections

Perski, Lukasz (2025) Navigating DEI in a Shifting Political Landscape: A Study of Corporate Strategy and Stakeholder Reactions Post-2024 U.S. Elections. Masters thesis, University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

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Abstract

This dissertation explores the impact of the 2024 U.S. presidential election and subsequent political shifts on corporate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) strategies. Set against the backdrop of Donald Trump’s return to the White House, the research investigates how corporations navigate heightened political scrutiny and regulatory changes in their approach to DEI, and how these adaptations influence stakeholder expectations and overall organisational resilience. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study combines qualitative semi-structured interviews with DEI professionals, open-ended questionnaires distributed across sectors, and secondary analysis of company reports, press releases, and industry statements. The analysis is framed by stakeholder and institutional theory and triangulated for validity. Key findings reveal that regulatory uncertainty and executive orders have driven many companies to recalibrate, often reframing or selectively scaling back DEI initiatives to manage legal risks and public perception. Despite these challenges, organisations with strong leadership commitment, transparent stakeholder engagement, and a values-driven DEI approach demonstrated greater resilience and sustained innovation. Conversely, firms adopting symbolic or compliance-oriented strategies risked employee disengagement, reputational harm, and a loss of competitive advantage. The research concludes with practical recommendations for developing authentic and sustainable DEI strategies, emphasising the need for data-driven decision making, inclusive leadership, transparent communication, and agile adaptation in politically volatile environments. These findings contribute to the broader understanding of DEI as a strategic imperative in times of socio-political change, offering actionable insights for business leaders and policymakers alike.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28 Management. Industrial Management
Divisions:	Theses and Dissertations > Masters Dissertations
Depositing User:	Victoria Hankinson
Date Deposited:	11 Dec 2025 10:38
Last Modified:	11 Dec 2025 10:38
URI:	https://repository.uwtsd.ac.uk/id/eprint/4048

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