Is fairness in international benefits practical or even possible?

By Adam Harding – Divisional Director – International Benefits at Howden

 National Inclusion Week (23-29 September)^[i] raises awareness of the importance of inclusive workplaces, and it’s also a chance to consider if employers can truly offer equitable employee benefits across their global workforce. Are there potential pitfalls and key considerations when striving for fairness in a diverse, international landscape?

Let’s consider the pros and cons

While offering complete equity in employee benefits across a global workforce is an attractive proposition, implementing this is complex and nuanced.

Providing uniform benefits can foster unity within the workforce, ensuring all employees, regardless of their location, receive the same support. This demonstrates an employer’s commitment to a diverse workforce and reinforces organisational values. It can also simplify administration, particularly for smaller organisations without local HR teams, by reducing the complexity of managing multiple benefit plans. Streamlined benefits can help control costs by eliminating the need for numerous tailored solutions.

Moreover, international healthcare policies are increasingly aligning with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) goals. Benefits now often include coverage for treatments such as menopause and HRT, gender reassignment surgery, infertility, and, in some instances, developmental disorders. Offering such inclusive benefits can strengthen an organisation’s commitment to supporting the diverse needs of its global workforce.

However, ensuring uniformity in international benefits is far from simple. Some of the biggest challenges are that regulations, cultural norms, and employee expectations vary enormously across different regions.

This approach can also be more expensive. In the UK the NHS provides free healthcare for local employees, but in the USA employees need robust health insurance.

Also, if an employer offers a global insurance product that doesn’t meet regulations – in the Netherlands for example its law to provide local health insurance – they may end up paying twice for the same benefit. It’s easy to see why a one-size-fits-all approach may not be ideal.

Key considerations for employers

Cultural sensitivities

Benefits valued in one region might be irrelevant or even inappropriate elsewhere for example, menopause support may be welcomed in the UK or USA, but it could be culturally insensitive in regions like the Middle East. Similarly, mental health benefits are becoming more recognised in some countries but might not be a priority in others. Even standard benefits, like holidays or paternity leave, can vary drastically from one region to another.

Employee expectations

Employee needs differ not just by location but by age, gender, and life stage. For instance, a young expat without dependents may prioritise different benefits than a local employee nearing retirement with a family. Tailoring benefits to these needs is essential.

Financial considerations

Tax systems and cost of living vary significantly across countries. For example, Dubai’s tax-free system can leave employees better off, but the higher cost of living means benefits must reflect these financial realities. 

Growth stage

The size and structure of the company matter. What works for a global organisation operating in 10 countries might be impractical for a start-up expanding into a new region. Acquisitions abroad can further complicate things, as existing benefit structures may be difficult to align.

Top tips for managing international benefits 

• Understand local regulations – Before implementing benefits, ensure they comply with local laws and regulations. This prevents costly duplications and ensures that all statutory requirements are met avoiding potential fines.
• Consider cultural sensitivities – Tailor benefits to align with local cultural norms where possible. What is valued in one region may be inappropriate in another, so it’s vital to understand the cultural context.
• Use benchmarking – This is great way to compare benefits across different countries. It helps in creating a benefits structure that is both fair and adapted to local needs; however, firms must commit to the time and budget to do this effectively.
• Engage employees – Regularly communicate with employees to understand their expectations and needs. This ensures that the benefits provided are valued and relevant.
• Plan for flexibility – Build the benefits strategy to allow for adjustments as the company grows or as local market conditions change. This prevents potential issues that can arise from rigid, one-size-fits-all policies.
• Educate and communicate – Clearly communicate the benefits package to employees and explain why certain benefits are offered in specific regions. Transparency helps in managing expectations and increasing satisfaction.

Conclusion

Achieving fairness in international benefits is a complex balancing act that requires careful consideration of local laws, cultural sensitivities, and the diverse needs of employees. While complete equity may not always be feasible, striving for fairness through flexible, region-specific strategies can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment. Global businesses must prioritise understanding their workforce and leveraging data and expert advice to tailor benefits that align with both company values and employee expectations. In the end, the goal is not necessarily uniformity, but ensuring that all employees feel valued and supported, no matter where they are in the world.

[i] https://www.inclusiveemployers.co.uk/national-inclusion-week/

Howden Employee Benefits & Wellbeing Limited is part of the Howden Group. Registered in England and Wales under company number 2248238, with its registered office at One Creechurch Place, London EC3A 5AF. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services Register No. 312841).  The Financial Services Register can be accessed through www.fca.org.uk