Megan Lopp Mathias Discusses Future of DEI Employment Initiatives

Hinshaw partner Megan Lopp Mathias recently joined the Innangard Global Podcast in an episode titled “DEI & Populism in 2026–Global Perspectives from Japan, Turkey, and the USA.”

The discussion focused on DEI employment policies and populism, and featured Megan, Akira Nagasaki of City‑Yuwa Partners (Japan), Erdem Balkan of Güzeldere Balkan Göçen Attorney Partnership (Turkey), and host Merrill April of CM Murray LLP (UK).

The group examined emerging diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) challenges in employment law in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Speakers considered whether those challenges reflect broader populist movements or issues more specific to Western nations. They also explored how shifts in DEI policy and sentiment in the US and UK may be influencing employers and legal frameworks globally.

The speakers then analyzed the current state and evolution of DEI across the US, UK, Japan, and Turkey, considering differing legal and cultural frameworks, the impact of populism on workplace policy, and the reputational considerations influencing corporate decision‑making. Finally, the discussion offered timely insights into how historical, cultural, and political contexts shape DEI initiatives and signal where DEI may be headed next worldwide.

Watch the full podcast episode below or listen to it here.

• • Innangard Global: “DEI & Populism in 2026 - Global Perspectives from Japan, Turkey, and the USA” (April 1, 2026)