Diversity and Inclusion in the Metaverse: A Structural Challenge

Inclusion in the metaverse is not determined by representation alone. It is shaped by the structural conditions that define who can participate, how they interact, and whether they can do so safely and on equal terms.

Research shows that participation in the metaverse is shaped by design decisions, governance models, and organizational practices. In particular, avatar systems influence how users express identity, but representation is limited by what platforms technically and culturally allow. As a result, when customisation options are restricted or standardized, users may be forced to adapt to predefined norms rather than reflect their lived realities.

Governance also plays a central role. Systems for reporting harm, protecting user data, and clarifying responsibility determine whether users can participate without risk of harassment, exclusion or misuse of personal information. Inclusion therefore depends on enforceable structures, not only on stated commitments.

The organisational dimension is equally important and often overlooked. As immersive technologies enter workplaces and educational settings, institutions must address issues such as bias, avatar conduct, digital fatigue, and psychological safety. Without clear policies and oversight, virtual environments may reproduce the same inequalities they aim to overcome.

Technical access is another key factor shaping participation. If immersive environments require costly devices, high connectivity, or specific physical conditions, exclusion is built into access itself. Accessibility must therefore extend beyond technical access to include cognitive, sensory, linguistic, and socioeconomic considerations.

Although major technology companies have publicly expressed commitments to inclusion, independent insight into implementation remains limited. In our review process, direct engagement with metaverse organizations and access to internal practices was minimal.  As a result, our analysis relied largely on publicly available material rather than internally verified evidence.

Looking ahead, meaningful progress requires integrating inclusion into system design from the outset, involving historically excluded communities in decision-making, strengthening governance frameworks, and expanding empirical research. Without these efforts, immersive environments risk replicating existing inequalities in digital form.

Ultimately, inclusion in the metaverse is not achieved through representation alone. It depends on how systems are designed, governed, and implemented over time.

This article forms part of the work carried out within NEOLAiA Work Package 3 (WP3), which explores pathways towards more inclusive and responsible immersive environments.