New Rules Introduced to Combat Workplace Harassment

Starting 26 October 2024, a new UK law mandates employers to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment, introducing a positive obligation that differs from the previous legal framework. Employers can be penalized if they fail to comply, facing increased compensation penalties in Employment Tribunals and reputational risks. In Australia, women in elite sport face significant challenges, including sexism and harassment, as highlighted by Melissa Haberfield's experiences and recent research showing women in sport are four times more likely to encounter gender-based barriers than men. Meanwhile, in Bangladesh, reports of public harassment against women have surged, exacerbated by a perceived lack of law enforcement, leading to increased attacks and intimidation in public spaces. A recent tribunal ruling in the UK awarded £51,000 to Nina Chung for derogatory remarks made by colleagues, illustrating workplace intolerance for harassment. The new Worker Protection Act emphasizes the need for employers to actively combat workplace harassment, challenging prior norms of acceptable behavior.