Understanding and Prevention of Sexual Harassment, Power Harassment, Discrimination and Forced Labour

EEOC issued a new Enforcement Guidance on Harassment in the Workplace on April 29, 2024 which states harassment is a form of employment discrimination. Harassment is unwelcome conduct that is based on race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity, or pregnancy), national origin, older age (beginning at age 40), disability, or genetic information (including family medical history). Harassment becomes unlawful where 1) enduring the offensive conduct becomes a condition of continued employment, or 2) the conduct is severe or pervasive enough to create a work environment that a reasonable person would consider intimidating, hostile, or abusive. Anti-discrimination laws also prohibit harassment against individuals in retaliation for filing a discrimination charge, testifying, or participating in any way in an investigation, proceeding, or lawsuit under these laws; or opposing employment practices that they reasonably believe discriminate against individuals, in violation of these laws. Eradication and control mechanism of harassment, discrimination and forced labor at workplace is crucial to protect employees of all levels and to meet business requirements globally.