Friday, 1 September 2023

Article 8 - Gender Discrimination at workplaces

 Introduction

Gender discrimination in employment and workplaces can occur in a variety of ways and of varying severity. Although the international society understands the importance of removing gender bias and achieving gender equity and equality in the workplace, it has yet to be addressed effectively (Bilkis, A. et al,. 2010). Gender discrimination can define itself in a variety of ways, such as uneven compensation for equal labor, restricted access to educational and employment possibilities, harassment, violence, and social stereotypes that sustain traditional gender norms.


What is discrimination?

“simply a matter of identifying differences (Witcher, S. 2013)

According to Bilkis, A. et al, (2010) Discrimination in the workplace is currently one of the most contentious issues in the globe. There have been several discoveries and serious charges of prejudice. Gender bias, in particular, has become widespread throughout most developing countries.


An Example of Gender Discrimination at Work Youtube 


What causes gender inequality in the workplace? Youtube

According to Michelle P.K (2020), What really causes gender inequality? The YouTube video explains the reason for gender inequity. Its that the people have the knowledge. But what they are lacking is understanding. Baum, B. (2021) says, a type of relative equality (equal treatment of persons and groups) that takes into account the needs and qualities of the individuals, the context of the situation, and the conditions that result in disparate outcomes.


Why is gender discrimination happening?

  •  “Gender discrimination at the workplace starts to operate even from the time a woman makes her choice to work. Employment capabilities, bargaining power, nature of work, and workload are the main pondering issues here (Bilkis, A. et al, 2010).” This means that gender discrimination is common in the workplace, beginning the minute a woman decides to pursue a career. It emphasizes that gender discrimination is not restricted to a single stage of one's career, but can occur at numerous levels, beginning with the decision to work and continuing through the various facets of employment. According to Bilkis, A. et al, (2010), there is not enough institutional effort being made to improve women's employment rights and opportunities. Work in factories and other establishments is still unsatisfactory for women. The mere presence of laws or policy papers has no effect.
  • Laws and government policies contain discrimination. Laws that previously barred women from voting, continue to exclude women from particular professions, or limit women's freedom of movement are examples. Laws that discriminate on the basis of gender in ways that prolong inequity rather than redressing past imbalance embody and exacerbate discrimination (Heymann, 2020).
  •  Failure of governments to outlaw prevalent discriminatory acts (Heymann, 2020).
  • Laws that impede equal rights and shared decision-making in interpersonal relationships (Heymann, 2020).

According to Heymann (2020), gender-based discrimination continues to be the most common kind of discrimination, affecting nearly every household worldwide. Gender discrimination extends across social class, race/ethnicity, and religion, leaving marginalized groups of women further behind, and women in nearly all groups less likely to have an equal voice, decision-making roles, or equal resource opportunities.

Organizations can help to end gender discrimination by raising employee awareness. These questions might be asked of the candidate during the interview process. Employers can bring in legal protection, promote equal opportunities, foster diversity and inclusion education, advocate gender equality policies, and also open a safe environment for employees to openly discuss discrimination taking place in workplaces. 


Conclusion

Gender discrimination is hurtful, unjust, and a violation of human rights, and society should endeavor to eliminate it for a variety of reasons. It undermines core human rights, such as the right to equality and non-discrimination, which are incorporated in various international human rights agreements and declarations. Gender discrimination may stunt economic growth by restricting women and people from diverse backgrounds from fully engaging in employment and entrepreneurial activity. Gender equality in the workplace has been shown to increase productivity and innovation. Gender discrimination must be addressed and eliminated because it is a moral necessity that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals. It also leads to a more equal, just, and successful society in which everyone has the opportunity to realize their full potential. Rather than "looking down" on discrimination based on gender, we should fight actively to dismantle it and promote gender equality.


List of references

Baum, B. (2021). Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policies: Are Organizations Truly Committed to a Workplace Culture Shift?. Journal of Business and Behavioral Sciences33(2), pp.11-23. Available from https://asbbs.org/files/2021-22/JBBS_33.2_Fall_2021.pdf#page=12 [Accessed 31st August 2023]

Bilkis, A., Habib, S.B. and Sharmin, T., (2010). A review of discrimination in employment and workplace. ASA University review4(2), pp.137-150. Available from: https://d1wqtxts1xzle7.cloudfront.net/76621860/v4n2sl13-libre.pdf?1639725890=&response-content-disposition=inline%3B+filename%3DA_Review_of_Discrimination_in_Employment.pdf&Expires=1693587619&Signature=fQXuua6GEKlW6ZjFRsiMftlSOMZPbSnOaJaucuPx-w3Yx~5L-XKZeUnMJpEzbZc00bMqwavgmwadA4ELc--BZ~xY22XBL729gTDjTm3RRfuNckQGn0JP5RXnXQ3cU5WwJ0m8uocHh0N6J~o94FrfMH1LAwZT0O4b6oShDnAwIMcL7~1d5g3D2UZ971b9boJ2tohybs902ivrjAQy-I-e49kTSTY9O4BhMxXOE9KZFkcO2TaC6Ux-YWXFCZiJVhQq11qY9r~pA4ESYKozZsJ00WG78GLiBWSfmwUWQy-0toNxAvCrVRYSTmwKrObx~5Ncr4Err7LYjeHI67pC-Nl7tA__&Key-Pair-Id=APKAJLOHF5GGSLRBV4ZA [Accessed 31st August 2023]

Heymann, J. (2020). Why Addressing Gender Is Foundational. In: Advancing Equality: How Constitutional Rights Can Make a Difference Worldwide 1st ed,. University of California Press, pp.45–70. Available from https://0-www-jstor-org.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/stable/pdf/j.ctv1f8854w.7.pdf?refreqid=excelsior%3A430c6288f11f3b84effa123274b59684&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&origin=&initiator=&acceptTC=1  [Accessed 1st September 2023]

Mahir Nisar (2018), An Example of Gender Discrimination at Work [online video] Available from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhbVP1svYf4 [Accessed 31st August 2023]

Michelle P. K (2020), What causes gender inequality in the workplace? [online video] Available from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2bwHXlke8I [Accessed 31st August 2023]

Witcher, S. (2013). Discrimination. In: Inclusive Equality: a Vision for Social Justice, 1st ed., Bristol University Press, pp.97–126. Available from https://0-www-jstor-org.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/stable/pdf/j.ctt9qgn28.8.pdf?refreqid=excelsior%3A7c6dfce2b91dd584137a98a383f0a9cd&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&origin=&initiator=&acceptTC=1 [Accessed 1st September 2023]

19 comments:

  1. Your blog posts always leave me feeling motivated and empowered. Thank you for consistently delivering uplifting content.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Hisshanthi, thank you and its great that the article has motivated and empowered you.

      Delete
  2. Absolutely agree! Gender discrimination is a moral imperative and an economic necessity. Let's all work together to create a more equal and just society for everyone. #GenderEquality

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  3. The article makes a strong case against gender discrimination, emphasizing that it is hurtful, unjust, and a violation of human rights. It highlights how gender discrimination undermines core human rights like equality and non-discrimination as per international agreements. Furthermore, it points out that gender discrimination can hinder economic growth by limiting participation in employment and entrepreneurship.

    The statement also stresses the positive impact of gender equality on workplace productivity and innovation. Ultimately, it argues that addressing and eliminating gender discrimination is not only a moral necessity but also beneficial for creating a more equal, just, and successful society where everyone can reach their full potential. It encourages active efforts to promote gender equality.

    A good article to read!!




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    1. Yes, discrimination violates fundamental human rights. Discrimination is the unfair or biased treatment of an individual or group based on their race, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, country origin, disability, or other traits. It may express itself in a variety of ways, including verbal abuse, physical aggression, and the denial of chances.
      As i have stated in the article, Although the international society understands the importance of removing gender bias and achieving gender equity and equality in the workplace, it has yet to be addressed effectively (Bilkis, A. et al,. 2010).

      Delete
  4. Completely agree with your article. Gender discrimination in the workplace is a pervasive issue that we can no longer afford to ignore. It not only affects women but also perpetuates stereotypes and limits opportunities for everyone. It's essential for companies to promote equality and diversity by implementing policies that address this problem. By fostering a more inclusive environment, we can ensure that every individual, regardless of their gender, has an equal chance to succeed.

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    Replies
    1. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, and I'm glad to hear you agree on the importance of addressing workplace gender discrimination. It is, undoubtedly, a widespread problem with profound consequences. In addition to adopting policies, individuals and organizations can take a number of different initiatives to build a more inclusive environment like raising awareness, zero tolerance, equal pay and policy etc.

      Delete
  5. Hi Dinuka. Agreed with your article.This article sheds light on the persistent issue of gender discrimination in workplaces, emphasizing that it begins even before a woman decides to pursue a career. It highlights the importance of addressing this problem through legal protections, equal opportunities, diversity education, and open dialogue in organizations. Gender equality is not just a goal; it's a necessity for a fair and inclusive society.

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    1. Hi Lasantha, I absolutely agree with your feelings on the article's emphasis on the ongoing issue of gender discrimination, which can have far-reaching consequences even before a woman begins her career journey. It's encouraging to see that more and more people see the need of tackling this issue. The focus in the paper on legal safeguards, equitable opportunity, diversity education, and open debate in companies is spot on.

      Delete
  6. As a woman, I wholeheartedly agree that gender discrimination is not only hurtful but also deeply unjust. It's disheartening to see how it violates fundamental human rights like equality and non-discrimination, which should be upheld for everyone, regardless of gender. Gender discrimination doesn't just harm individuals; it has wider repercussions by limiting economic growth and stifling the full potential of a diverse workforce.

    Promoting gender equality isn't just a moral necessity; it's a crucial step towards building a fairer and more successful society where everyone can thrive. Instead of tolerating discrimination, we must actively work towards dismantling it and fostering an environment where gender equality prevails. It's a journey that requires collective effort, but the rewards in terms of a more just and prosperous world are worth every step.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I wholeheartedly agree with you on the injustice of gender discrimination. It's sad to see how this ubiquitous issue violates core human rights that should be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of gender. The violation of equality and non-discrimination values is a stain on our society, and we must continue to struggle to correct it.

      Gender discrimination is not only a personal issue; it has far-reaching ramifications for our economy, society, and the well-being of all people. When we limit people's options and potential based on their gender, we hinder innovation, creativity, and economic progress.

      Delete
  7. Good job! This article provides a comprehensive and well-researched examination of the issue of gender discrimination in the workplace. It effectively addresses the various forms of gender bias and discrimination that persist in employment settings, highlighting the importance of gender equity and equality.

    The inclusion of quotes, references, and external sources adds credibility to the content, demonstrating a solid research effort. The article also effectively emphasizes the negative impacts of gender discrimination, not only on individuals but also on economic growth and productivity.

    The conclusion provides a strong call to action, underlining the moral necessity of addressing and eliminating gender discrimination for a more equitable and just society. It encourages readers to actively engage in the fight for gender equality.

    Overall, this article is informative, thought-provoking, and well-written, shedding light on a crucial social issue.





    ReplyDelete
  8. Totally agree.Women are affected by gender discrimination in the workplace on a wide range of levels, from uneven pay and limited opportunities to harassment and stereotypes. Inadequate institutional efforts, discriminatory laws, and government apathy are some of its core causes. Raising awareness, putting in place legal safeguards, encouraging equality, offering diversity training, and creating safe spaces for staff to discuss discrimination are all ways that businesses may battle this issue. In addition to being morally necessary, ending gender discrimination is also essential for social fairness, productivity, economic growth, and creativity since it ensures that everyone has the chance to succeed and contribute without prejudice.

    According to a survey, 52% of young women reported that they faced mental health issues due to the gender discrimination and sexual harassment at workplace(Batool, F., 2020).

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  9. HI, It's important to note that while the statement you provided outlines the persistence of gender-based discrimination and suggests ways organizations can address it, I don't have specific information on a source or publication by Heymann (2020) in my knowledge base. However, I can certainly provide information on the general strategies and approaches that organizations can take to address gender discrimination and promote gender equality in the workplace

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  10. This article provides a comprehensive and insightful overview of the challenges surrounding gender discrimination in the modern workplace. Well done.
    furthermore,To what extent does workplace culture contribute to or mitigate gender discrimination, and how can it be improved?

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    Replies
    1. Hi Ilma, as I have stated in the article, Although the international society understands the importance of removing gender bias and achieving gender equity and equality in the workplace, it has yet to be addressed effectively (Bilkis, A. et al,. 2010). What we can do is bring awareness in our workplaces, conduct diversity and inclusion trainings and many other things. We can even have a zero tolerance policy. I believe voice of all the employees, men and women would be heard and valued.

      Delete
  11. Gender bias exists globally, but is more prevalent in regions such as Asia. Is there a plan to reduce gender discrimination in Sri Lankan workplaces?

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    Replies
    1. Governments can create and enforce gender equality rules in the workplace. These laws may prevent workplace discrimination, promote equal pay for equal effort, and require family-friendly measures such as maternity and paternity leave.
      Regular pay equity evaluations may be conducted by governments and organizations to ensure that women are paid the same as men for comparable work.
      According to Michelle P.K (2020), What really causes gender inequality? The YouTube video explains the reason for gender inequity. Its that the people have the knowledge. But what they are lacking is understanding. Bringing awareness in workplaces and talking about these issues is the best way to deal with it.

      Delete
  12. Gender discrimination is, without a doubt, hurtful, unjust, and a clear violation of human rights. It violates the principles of equality, fairness, and respect for all people, regardless of gender. Eliminating gender discrimination is not only a moral imperative; it is also necessary for creating a more inclusive and equitable society in which everyone can live and work without fear of discrimination or bias. Addressing gender discrimination benefits society as a whole by encouraging diversity, promoting economic growth, and upholding human rights and social justice principles.

    ReplyDelete

Article 8 - Gender Discrimination at workplaces

  Introduction Gender discrimination in employment and workplaces can occur in a variety of ways and of varying severity. Although the inter...