Concerns about retaliation holding employees back from reporting workplace discrimination
Discrimination against employees and jobseekers continued its downward trend in 2023, indicating "sustained improvements" in workplace fairness standards, according to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
The proportion of employees who experienced discrimination in 2023 went down to six per cent, down from 8.2% in 2022 and much lower than the 24.1% recorded in 2018.
The proportion of jobseekers who also faced discrimination declined to 23.4%, down from 23.8% in 2022 and significantly lower than the 42.7% in 2018.
Source: Ministry of Manpower
MOM further found that 63.2% of resident employees are working in firms that have formal procedures in place to manage workplace discrimination.
This continues an increasing trend since the 49.6% recorded in 2018, which increased to 59.8% in 2022, according to MOM.
Source: Ministry of Manpower
The ministry attributed the "sustained improvements in workplace fairness standards" to the collective efforts of various parties.
"The improvements in overall workplace fairness standards reflect the collective efforts of the government, employers, workers, and unions in ensuring a fair work environment for all," MOM said in a statement.
Fears of retaliation after discrimination
However, MOM pointed out that more can be done to improve employees' confidence in reporting workplace discrimination after a decline in employees looking for help.
According to the report, the proportion of employees who sought help after facing discrimination dropped to 29.3% in 2023, down from 35.3% the year prior.
Among the reasons employees did not seek help were:
- Fear of being marginalised at work or causing "more awkward" work relations (24%)
- Concerns over the detrimental impact on their careers (18.2%)
Workplace Fairness Legislation coming
MOM said the upcoming Workplace Fairness Legislation will protect employees from retaliation should they report discriminatory work practices.
"Employers will also be required to put in place proper grievance handling processes so that they are well-equipped to support their employees should there be any workplace discrimination," MOM added.
The Singapore government is planning to introduce the Workplace Fairness Legislation this year, which is expected to prohibit common forms of discrimination in the workplace, such as age, sex, family status, race, nationality, and mental health.
Law and Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam also previously revealed that the legislation will cover ethnic and religious grounds.
MOM said strengthening protections against workplace discrimination will benefit employers by giving them a more engaged workforce, stronger positive reputation, and a harmonious workplace.
"All of which leads to better business outcomes," MOM said.
