The Paradox of Diversity Initiatives: Structural Disadvantages for Global South Scholars in Academia

Abstract

The implementation of diversity initiatives at Western universities serves as proof of institutional dedication to equity programs. These diversity initiatives represent mechanisms that perpetuate colonial power dynamics despite being presented as reform efforts from a critical psychological viewpoint. The article argues that diversity policies convert fundamental epistemic violence into individual problems that divert attention from implementing complete structural changes. The analysis employs decolonial theory, critical psychology, and postcolonial studies to show how diversity programs silence decolonisation movements while maintaining Eurocentric epistemologies and current hiring practices. The inclusion offered through these initiatives centres "Whiteness" and neoliberal logic instead of eliminating coloniality, so they fail to dismantle power structures. The article ends by supporting actual decolonisation processes instead of diversity paradigms, which would acknowledge multiple epistemologies while distributing power in academic institutions.