Objective:

To describe the current state of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in intensive care, identify persistent barriers, and outline strategies for a more equitable and inclusive environment for ICU professionals and patients.

Approach:

• Preparation and review: The ESICM Diversity and Inclusion Group prepared the position paper. Executive Committee members reviewed it, revisions were incorporated, and the committee approved the final version.
• Scope: The statement addresses diversity, equity, and inclusion in ICU teams, patient care, research, and ESICM activities.

Key Findings:

• Diversity encompasses characteristics beyond gender and ethnicity, including language, culture, sexual orientation and gender identity, age, education, religion, socioeconomic status, and disability.
• The paper describes diverse ICU teams as contributing varied perspectives to clinical discussion and innovation, and as supporting culturally respectful communication, patient-centred care, and workplace collaboration.
• Women and ethnic minority groups remain underrepresented in healthcare leadership, while social determinants can influence patients’ access to and quality of care.
• Proposed measures include structured mentorship, transparent recruitment and selection, comprehensive data collection, inclusive representation in clinical research, psychological safety, accessible events, and inclusive leadership training.
• Barriers to inclusion include cultural resistance and enduring stereotypes. The paper also identifies the need for measurable indicators of team diversity and climate.

Interpretation:

The position statement frames EDI as requiring both fair access and support tailored to differing needs, alongside everyday inclusive practices and systematic efforts to address structural barriers.

Limitations:

• The provided article context ends mid-sentence, so later content and any additional qualifications are unavailable.

Conclusion:

The statement outlines strategies for improving equity and inclusion in ICU workplaces, patient care, research, and professional activities, while identifying persistent implementation and evaluation challenges.