Offensive expression and the workplace
2014
43
4
December
429-450
bullying at work ; freedom of expression ; labour law ; unjustified dismissal ; religious discrimination
Law
http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/indlaw/dwu023
English
"In this article I argue that freedom of expression is an important right even within the employment context. I contend that there should be a presumption in favour of free expression even if the expression is offensive, particularly if it involves a matter of public debate. However, the interests of colleagues and employers should be taken into account and may be decisive. Where expression takes place outside work, employees should only be subject to disciplinary action if there is a clear link between their employment and the expression. I consider the law relating to these issues in the contexts of harassment, unfair dismissal and discrimination on the grounds of religion and belief."
Paper
The ETUI is co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the ETUI.