Challenge of Addressing Workplace Harassment & Discrimination
In the last few years, no other ethics and compliance issue has seen as much media coverage as sexual harassment. And this can be just the tip of the iceberg. The EEOC states that majority of people who experience sexual harassment in the workplace (up to 94%) do not report it. With movements like #MeToo empowering people to speak out, employers need to all they can to protect their people and their reputation.
Creating a workplace culture where employees feel safe and respected means designing and implementing a workplace harassment prevention program that adapts to emerging issues. The political environment, social events and technological developments can all influence workplace harassment.
Technology is another factor that can make workplace harassment a bigger concern. Digital devices are now smaller, more portable and more powerful, allowing for constant engagement. Technology also enables people to connect in ways that would not have been possible only a few years ago. With the almost nonstop coverage of news events and constant stream of information through social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter, it’s almost impossible for employees to avoid discussing divisive topics in the workplace.
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