Zero Discrimination Day (also known as Zero Discrimination Day) has been held annually on March 1 since 2014 and initially focused on discrimination against people living with HIV and AIDS. In recent years, this day has expanded to include ending all forms of discrimination that impact quality of life, health, and well-being.
Zero Discrimination Day promotes equal treatment and sets an example against all forms of discrimination.
Discrimination can occur in many different areas of everyday life, including the workplace. The causes of discrimination can be many, but one thing is certain: discrimination is stressful and hurtful to the person affected.
According to the Workforce View 2020 study by the ADP Research Institute, one in three employees has already felt disadvantaged at some point. The most common reason cited for discrimination in Germany is gender (8.1%). This is followed by age, appearance, nationality, ethnic background, religion, disability and other characteristics.
Discrimination can be particularly harmful in the workplace and can take many forms. It can lead to unequal opportunities, unequal pay, and a hostile work environment, which can have serious negative effects on employees and the company. Discrimination and bullying can lead to significant mental health problems, poor productivity, social isolation of the person involved, and high turnover in the company.
According to the above-mentioned study, 60% of the employees surveyed from Germany do not know who in the company they can turn to if they experience discrimination - there is apparently still a lack of effective prevention and awareness-raising measures here.
To achieve Zero Discrimination at work, companies and organizations must take effective measures to create a culture of respect. This can be done by implementing equal opportunity policies and procedures, such as anti-discrimination policies that comply with national laws, establishing a complaint management system, and/or appointing an ombudsperson to whom individuals affected by discrimination can turn.
Educational measures also play a crucial role in prevention, as regular training measures raise employees' awareness of the negative effects of discrimination. This in turn strengthens awareness of respectful interaction. This creates a safe working environment in which employees feel comfortable and supported to be themselves. When employees are treated with respect and dignity, they tend to be more motivated, productive and happy in their work, which in turn has a positive impact on the company.
At mybreev, we have a zero-tolerance policy towards discrimination, hatred, harassment and bullying, and place a high value on the togetherness and well-being of our employees.
For this reason, it is a matter of course for us to have our own e-learning channel on the topic of diversity and inclusion in our portfolio. The Fairness First channel contains our courses, which companies can use to sensitize their employees to the various facets of the topic complex - for cross-company awareness on the topic of discrimination.
In conclusion, Zero Discrimination Day and Zero Discrimination at Work are interconnected, and we must work towards achieving zero discrimination in all areas of our lives, including the workplace. By promoting diversity and inclusion, and taking action against discrimination, we can create a more just, fair, and productive society. So let us celebrate Zero Discrimination Day by committing to Zero Discrimination at Work, and let us work towards building a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
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Uwe Röniger
CEO mybreev
