Increase in workplace sex discrimination claims, study suggests

Increase in workplace sex discrimination claims, study suggests


Daily Mail - 8 July 2019

New research suggests that the number of sex discrimination claims by employees has increased by 69%, reaching a five-year high.

More than 9,300 claims were made in the past year, with women increasingly likely to come forward since the start of the MeToo movement, said employment lawyers GQ Littler.

Moves by companies to tackle sex discrimination, such as banning alcohol at work-related events, or discouraging hugging, are not preventing claims being made, said the law firm.

Allegations of sexual assault against Harvey Weinstein, one of Hollywood’s most powerful figures, triggered a wide reckoning for men accused of improper behaviour in October 2017.

It quickly spread beyond the confines of the film industry with thousands of women using the hashtag #MeToo to tell their stories of sexual harassment and discrimination.

Weinstein, who denies all allegations of non-consensual sex, is facing a trial in New York on charges of sexual assault.

Hannah Mahon of GQ Littler, said: “The increase in sex discrimination claims will raise questions over whether employers are doing enough to stamp out inappropriate behaviour in the workplace.


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