Diversity within IHPBA

The IHPBA appreciates the feedback from our members around both gender balance and diversity within our Association and as reflected at our World Congress.

We are committed to diversity and are actively working to address the historical shortcomings in this regard.  We probably have not worked hard enough, and recognise that there are still gaps in our world congress program and in the representation on our committees. The Twitter discussion has precipitated a much-needed engagement.

Many women deserve to participate in our structures based on merit alone and we have debated a quota approach.  There are many arguments for and against, including how a quota system may be required as an initial driver to overcome some of the systemic obstacles to diversity.  Alternatively, a quota system may not promote a meritocracy and can be viewed as paternalistic.  We have however made some progress and look to our members to guide us in the future through the self-nomination process to committees, submissions to HPB and abstract submission and attendance at our regional and world congresses.

We welcome and encourage HPB surgeons from all demographic and geographic groups to engage with the Association and secure representation and a voice in the future direction of IHPBA.  We are keen to hear from you, and I would like to suggest that this discussion migrates from social media to a more inclusive platform so that all our members can participate in a positive discussion as to how we move into the future and ensure the IHPBA is representative of all the regions and enjoys the benefits of diversity.   This discussion can be accessed at https://www.ihpba.org/myHPB/discussions/edit.php?id=324 (you will have to be logged in to add to the discussion

Martin Smith
President IHPBA

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