Social Inclusion and Cultural Dimensions Anni Bohn

Social Inclusion What is Social Inclusion? Inclusive approach - an integral part of APDP development. Primary focus on equality/meritorious participation in every process. While non-discriminatory, consideration to support minority groups. Welcome non-mainstream participants disadvantaged due to gender, race, ethnicity, religion, region, sexual orientation and disability. The Program supports inclusive approach for all groups including marginalised groups, to fully participate for successful outcome.

Social Inclusion Action Plan to include all participant groups and research area Criteria based Mentor and Mentee selection process. Inclusion of research areas for rural economic, healthcare, infrastructure development including disaster management. Enable and support participation of regional and economically vulnerable rural Indonesia. Maintain gender equality in participation but also empower women. Inclusion of research in improvement of women’s economic, political conditions and social protection, empowerment of women in growth-related issues (health, labour migration/mobility) Program open to people with disabilities and support them to fully participate.

Cross Cultural Dimensions Power Distance (PD) To ensure healthy collaboration space - value and awareness of embedded culture between Mentors and Mentees. Explore two of the six Hofstede’s cultural dimensions (Culture’s consequences*, G Hoftstede – 1980) limitations but provides a broader understanding of cultures. Low PD culture the subordinate dependency on the boss is limited but consultative, interdependent. Is PD high or low in Indonesian and Australian organisational culture?

Cross Cultural Dimensions Uncertainty Avoidance (UA) Familiarity with codes of practice creates confidence in behaviour Unfamiliarity produces anxiety due to ambiguous situations. Positive collaboration space requires clear set of goals and objectives. Therefore, set guidelines for working in the Mentor and Mentee agreement and have a consultative approach and mutual respect. Is UA high or low in Indonesian and Australian organisational culture?

Cross Cultural Dimensions What is the best Collaborative Environment? Encourage positive collaborative space through low PD <78 and low UA <48. Open communication and honest discussion- easy to approach without a culture of uncertainty. Clear guidelines on what to expect and clearly agreed goal setting. Encourage collegiality and avoid inequality – interdepended and optimistic. Motivate and guide to inspire thought process expressed openly, link F-2-F.