Equity, diversity and inclusion

Equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility (EDIA) are core elements of our business ethos and we consider demographic, experiential and cognitive diversity in our policies and practices.

Our culture is responsible and collaborative, and our aim is for colleagues to have equal chances to grow and learn, creating an environment where everyone thrives and feels a sense of belonging. We aspire to diversity across our publishing programme, from subject area and authorship to editorial boards and reviewers. 

We recognise the range of protected characteristics under the UK 2010 Equality Act which protects people in employment from discrimination, victimization, harassment or other detriment across: age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation. The legislation does not currently encompass class/socio-economic background or neurodiversity, which EUP includes in its EDIA remit where legislation currently allows for positive action but not positive discrimination. 

With an established internal working group we are introducing a variety of EDIA initiatives. Activity will range across the areas outlined above but with specific goals around race and ethnicity, gender and equitable access. 

Edinburgh University Press is a signatory to EvenUP, A UK and Irish university presses commitment to equity, diversity and inclusivity.

Edinburgh University Press is a signatory to the Publishing Inclusion Pledge, 2026-2028. 

'We affirm our commitment to equity, inclusion and belonging as essential principles guiding the UK publishing sector. Across recruitment, professional development, leadership and partnerships, we will strive to ensure fair opportunities and an environment where everyone is respected, heard and supported. We recognise that diverse perspectives strengthen our industry, and we are committed to embedding these values into our practices and decision-making at every level.  

'Our commitment to inclusion and widening participation guides how we work, what we create, and the stories, information, knowledge and ideas we share, reflecting the diversity of the world we serve. Through continuous learning, accountability, and action – and with support from the Publishers Association – we will strive to make UK publishing a more inclusive space for our colleagues, our authors and other contributors, as well as our readers.'