Publicis Groupe Hungary's New DEI Programme Advances Women's Well-Being in the Workforce

In conjunction with the recent European Diversity Month, Publicis Groupe Hungary has launched a new women’s health program designed to support female employees who face challenges related to painful menstruation or menopause. This initiative follows Publicis Groupe Central & Eastern Europe (CEE)’s Embrace Gender Equity effort from last year, which aimed to build workplaces where women’s careers can thrive. The program is supported by several organisations, including We Are Open, Endometriosis Hungary, Menopause Friendly Workplace, and CMF Medical.

On the back of Publicis Groupe CEE’s Embrace Gender Equity initiative in 2023, this new program represents a continued commitment by Publicis Groupe CEE and Publicis Groupe Hungary to foster an open and inclusive company culture. It sets a new benchmark in the country for inclusion and women's well-being, allowing female employees to adjust their work arrangements during challenging periods, thus reinforcing a supportive and non-stigmatizing workplace.

Veronica Borbas, chief talent officer, Publicis Groupe CEE, highlighted the importance of this initiative, “Last year, we were proud to kick off our efforts on equity with the Embrace Gender Equity initiative, taking a small but important step towards a more inclusive environment. This year, we progress further with the launch of this new program by Publicis Groupe Hungary. The unwavering commitment of Zsófia Komáromi, our CTO in Hungary, has been the driving force behind this transformative initiative, illustrating our dedication to foster an empowering environment where women can thrive both personally and professionally. At Publicis Groupe, we are proactive in championing a culture that transcends the horizon, addressing the often unspoken needs of our female talents and implementing measures to ensure their well-being, thereby driving equity and shaping a more inclusive, respectful future.”

Despite the critical importance of menstrual health and menopause for women, these topics remain taboo in many workplaces. Publicis Groupe Hungary is tackling this issue head-on by fostering open dialogue and education on these subjects.

"At Publicis Groupe Hungary, we are committed to believing that our diversity is of value. To create an inclusive work environment, we must also consider the different individual needs of our employees. Women can face many emotional and physical challenges during their menstrual cycle or menopause. We want to provide a supportive environment and tangible help during these periods, not only to support our female colleagues, but also to promote open communication and a non-judgmental and non-stigmatizing work environment," said Zsófia Komáromi, chief talent officer at Publicis Groupe Hungary.

Publicis Groupe Hungary’s women’s health program is professionally supported by organisations such as We Are Open, Endometriosis Hungary, Menopause Friendly Workplace and CMF Medical as well as led by Orsolya Iványi, menopause education activist and board member of the Hungarian Menopause Society.

Areas of support provided by the new program include:

• Additional flexibility within flexible working hours (e.g., increasing home office days)
• Discounted medical consultation and examination at CMF Medical
• Menopause advice and consultation
• Coaching and psychological support
• Feminine hygiene products available

Adrienn Salamon, president of the Foundation for Women's Health and World Liaison leader and board member of the World Endometriosis Society, emphasised the importance of education, “Endometriosis affects one in 10 women of childbearing age, impacting millions worldwide. Our mission is to ensure every woman has the right to a pain-free, fulfilling life. Raising awareness about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for painful menstruation is essential.”

Beyond supporting female employees and enhancing internal education, the program aims to drive positive change at industry and societal levels, setting a new benchmark for inclusion and female well-being.

This is not the first program geared towards employee well-being and support that Publicis Groupe Hungary and Publicis Groupe have launched. Last year, the global company launched their Working with Cancer program, which ensures job and financial security for employees diagnosed with cancer or other long-term chronic illnesses for a minimum of one year, demonstrating the Groupe’s ongoing commitment to employee well-being and support.