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Sexism in the Workplace Essay

Decent Essays

Sexism in the Workplace

The workplace is the area in which sexism is most commonly found. Sexism is in

evidence in unfair recruitment practices, unequal pay, and intimidating behavior towards

colleagues. Legislation is now in place in many countries that prohibits unfair treatment

of staff on the grounds of their sex. The problem with this legislation is that they are

often difficult to apply.

In 1970, the Equal Pay Act was introduced. It requires employers to provide equal pay

for equal work. The Sex Discrimination Act enforces fair recruitment policies. The

European Equal Pay Directive and the Equal Treatment Directive are also in force. If

individuals feel …show more content…

This reflects

the undervaluation of women's work and skills, even in today's cosmopolitan workplaces.

Also, in developing countries women are paid only 60 - 70% of men's earnings, and

there are more women in seasonal jobs. It has also been argued that sexism prevails in

domestic work as most housework worldwide is still undertaken by women.

Sexism is not only indicated in the pay gap. Suggestive behaviour made towards

colleagues which has a sexual motive, or unwelcome sexual advances are forms of sexual

harassment. Both men and women may be victims of this. Sexual harassment is not

mentioned in sex discrimination legislation, although such legislation has been used in a

considerable number of harassment cases. There is a European Code of Practice that

advises employers on how best to prevent sexual harassment. However, employers are

not legally bound to it. It is possible for employers to comply with existing legislation,

but to continue to make sexist assumptions when appointing or promoting staff.

In conclusion, women are being devalued in the workplace. Even if they hold a job that

requires equal education and skills, they are being paid less than men. In the world today,

issues such as child abuse, the unfair treatment of animals and the environment have

been, or are being addressed. So why

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