Exploring organizational and societal culture: A comparative analysis of Gender Equality Strategies in Multinational Context

Abstract

This thesis explores the interplay between organizational and societal culture and its effect on the implementation of gender equality strategies within multinational organizations, comparing Greece and the Netherlands. The research question addresses how these cultural dynamics affect the implementation and outcomes of these strategies, considering diverse geographical contexts. Specifically, it investigates internal stakeholders’ perceptions from a particular multinational consulting organization operating in the two countries. Utilizing theories on organizational culture by Schein and Quinn & Rohrbaugh, and on societal culture by Hofstede, this research seeks to address cultural factors that impede or facilitate the proper implementation of gender equality practices. Using a qualitative method, including semi- structured interviews and secondary data, the findings of this research reveal that traditional gender roles and perspectives hinder gender equality initiatives in Greece, while the Dutch egalitarian and progressive culture promotes their implementation. A significant difference between the two contexts lies in workforce cultural diversity, with Greece demonstrating homogeneity and the Netherlands heterogeneity, suggesting a strong influence on the implementation of gender equality strategies. By integrating this factor, this research aims to enhance applicability of gender equality strategies in multicultural teams.