What Is Workplace Discrimination?
Workplace discrimination refers to the unfair treatment of employees or job candidates based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. In human resource management, addressing and preventing discrimination is not only a legal obligation but also a critical step toward fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace.
Types of Workplace Discrimination
Discrimination can take many forms. Some of the most common types include:
- Racial Discrimination: Treating employees unfairly because of their race or ethnicity.
- Gender Discrimination: Biased treatment based on a person’s gender or gender identity.
- Age Discrimination: Denying opportunities to older employees due to their age.
- Disability Discrimination: Failing to accommodate or hiring decisions influenced by a person’s physical or mental disability.
- Religious Discrimination: Disrespecting or penalising employees for their religious beliefs or practices.
Discrimination can occur in hiring, promotions, pay, job assignments, training, and termination. Even subtle behaviours, such as micro-aggressions or exclusion from team activities, can contribute to a toxic and discriminatory work culture.
The Role of HR in Preventing Discrimination
HR professionals play a key role in ensuring compliance with anti-discrimination laws and promoting equal opportunity at work. This includes:
- Establishing clear anti-discrimination policies
- Conducting regular training on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)
- Creating confidential reporting systems for employees to raise concerns
- Ensuring fair hiring and performance evaluation processes
It’s also crucial to track and analyse data related to diversity metrics, pay equity, and promotion rates to identify patterns of potential bias.
Beyond legal compliance, eliminating discrimination helps create a positive company culture where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to contribute. An inclusive workplace boosts employee engagement, reduces turnover, and enhances overall organisational performance.
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