Approved August 19, 2025
The World Sleep Society (WSS) is committed to fostering a global community that values diversity, equity, and inclusion across all aspects of sleep medicine and research. We recognize that diverse perspectives and inclusive practices enhance scientific innovation, clinical care, and professional collaboration.
We strive to ensure equal opportunities and fair treatment for all individuals regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, nationality, socioeconomic background, or political affiliation. This commitment extends to all WSS activities, including membership, leadership, conferences, publications, awards, and collaborative projects.
WSS actively promotes inclusive representation in its governance, educational programs, scientific initiatives, and outreach efforts. We encourage the participation and leadership of individuals from underrepresented and marginalized groups, and we seek to provide a respectful and supportive environment for all members.
We hold ourselves accountable by regularly reviewing our policies, structures, and practices to ensure alignment with our values of equity, access, and global inclusivity.
World Sleep Society – Diversity and Inclusion Policy
The World Sleep Society (WSS) is committed to building and maintaining a global community that actively values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe that embracing a wide range of perspectives, across gender, geography, culture, language, background, and experience, enhances scientific progress, clinical excellence, and meaningful collaboration.
Our Commitments:
- Inclusive Representation
WSS is committed to ensuring equitable representation of all genders and global regions across its leadership, committees, working groups, and task forces. This includes proactive efforts to balance participation across traditionally underrepresented groups and regions.
- Representative Programming
We will ensure that keynote speakers, panelists, and featured contributors at WSS congresses and events reflect a balance of gender identities, career stages, and geographic diversity. Selection processes will be transparent and guided by these values.
- Addressing Unconscious Bias
WSS recognizes that unconscious bias can influence decisions, behaviors, and institutional practices. We are committed to acknowledging and actively countering these biases by embedding structured, reflective processes in leadership selection, program planning, and peer recognition.
- Affiliate Society Equality
All WSS Affiliate Societies, regardless of size, location, or resources, are equally valued contributors to the global mission of the Society. Each Affiliate has an equal voice in decision-making processes and strategic directions, ensuring a truly collaborative and representative governance structure.
- Continuous Evaluation and Accountability
We will regularly assess our activities, structures, and programs to ensure alignment with our diversity and inclusion goals. Feedback from members and Affiliate Societies will inform improvements and guide future policies.
WSS believes that diversity is not just a goal but a fundamental strength. By fostering inclusion, we enhance our ability to serve the global sleep community and promote healthier sleep for all.