ILO's commitment to non-discrimination, equality, diversity and inclusion in South Africa

Stakeholder Engagement on Workplace Harassment

On November 28, 2024, the ILO, in collaboration with the Commission for Employment Equity (CEE) and the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), hosted a Stakeholder Engagement on Workplace Harassment, including bullying, at the ANEW Hotel in Hatfield. This engagement aimed to reflect on South Africa's journey in implementing ILO Convention C190 and to share experiences with key stakeholders and other SADC states, such as Namibia and Lesotho.

The event featured a comprehensive programme that included international perspectives on ILO C190, South Africa's legislative and policy instruments on workplace harassment, case law on workplace harassment, and practical experiences on the prevention and elimination of harassment in the workplace. Presentations were made by various stakeholders, including organized business, organized labour, and community representatives, who shared their challenges and proposed solutions to address workplace harassment.

Key discussions highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing workplace harassment and the need for more inclusive and supportive workplace policies. The engagement also emphasized the significance of raising awareness about the Code of Good Practice to Prevent and Eliminate Harassment in the workplace and the necessity of adopting strategies and policies to eliminate harassment, including bullying.

The event was attended by 80 delegates, including representatives from organized business, organized labour, government, Section 9 institutions, and two SADC member states. Despite some challenges, such as late confirmation of key stakeholders and the absence of the Minister and Director General due to urgent commitments, the engagement successfully provided a platform for meaningful discussions and the identification of possible solutions

Launch of the DPSA Policy on Prevention and Elimination of Harassment in the Public Service World of Work

South Africa has recently unveiled a groundbreaking policy to eradicate harassment in the public service, aligning with international standards set by the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 190. The launch event, held in the Eastern Cape on December 3, 2024, brought together key figures from various sectors, highlighting the policy’s significance in promoting a safe, inclusive, and respectful working environment.

The policy addresses all forms of harassment, including sexual, physical, psychological, and discriminatory harassment, ensuring protection for vulnerable groups such as women, persons with disabilities, and the LGBTQIA+ community. It enforces a strict zero-tolerance approach to any form of violence and harassment in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all employees.

In his keynote address, the Minister of the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), the Honourable Inkosi Mzamo BUTHELEZI, hailed the policy as a decisive step forward.

This launch demonstrates our government’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and progressive working environment where all public servants excel in the execution of their duties,”

he stated. The policy aims to hold perpetrators accountable while offering robust support and protection for victims, thus fostering a culture of respect and professionalism.

Oscar MABUYANE, the Premier of the Eastern Cape (hosting province for the launch), emphasized the policy’s role as a critical tool in combating workplace harassment, particularly against women. “Sex-for-jobs scandals and workplace bullying violate the dignity of women and young females… Psychological trauma destroys lives, marriages, and careers - it must be stopped in its tracks. The province is committed to leading by example, ensuring transparency, and offering support such as counselling and legal assistance to victims,” he remarked.

James CHRISTOFF, High Commissioner of Canada to South Africa,

© DPSA

© DPSA

praised South Africa’s leadership in fostering gender equality and inclusive governance.

This policy moves from paper to practice, fostering environments where every individual is treated with dignity and respect, where ethical conduct is the foundation of every action, and where integrity is at the heart of public service,” the High Commissioner noted.

The International Labour Organization’s Simphiwe MABHELE commended South Africa for its leadership in ratifying ILO Convention C190. “This policy, aligned with ILO Convention 190, expands the definition of the ‘world of work’ and addresses all forms of harassment - not just sexual harassment -ensuring dignity, privacy, and equality for all,” Mr Simphiwe Mabhele stated. The ILO called for collective commitment from all stakeholders to ensure the policy’s success.

The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) expressed its support, highlighting the policy’s role in guiding HR practitioners and harassment committees, and noting the importance of strengthening the legal frameworks related to harassment.

This landmark policy sets a precedent for South Africa and serves as a model for other nations striving to create equitable and respectful work environments. As the policy moves from theory to practice, the DPSA, in collaboration with the ILO, promises to transform the Public Service into a bastion of integrity and human dignity.