What is workplace dignity?
Workplace dignity refers to the basic human right of every worker to be treated with respect, fairness, and equality in the workplace. It means that every employee should be able to work in an environment free from harassment, discrimination, and violence. Workplace dignity also includes the right to privacy, autonomy, and participation in decision-making processes that affect their work and well-being.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights affirms that “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights”, which is at the heart of all human rights work around the world. It extends to the workplace, as Article 23 and 24 of the Declaration further provide the definition of workplace dignity:
“Everyone has the right to work, to free choice of employment, to just and favorable conditions of work and to protection against unemployment. Everyone, without any discrimination, has the right to equal pay for equal work. Everyone who works has the right to just and favorable remuneration ensuring for himself and his family an existence worthy of human dignity, and supplemented, if necessary, by other means of social protection.”
Universal Declaration of Human Right, Article 23 and 24
“Everyone has the right to rest and leisure, including reasonable limitations of working hours and periodic holidays with pay.”
Why is a workplace centered on dignity so important?
A workplace that values dignity recognizes that employees are human beings with unique talents, perspectives, and experiences. This means that employees are not merely cogs in a machine, but individuals with intrinsic worth and dignity. When this is reflected in the workplace culture, employees are more likely to feel connected to the organization’s mission and goals. Creating a workplace centered on dignity can help to prevent workplace harassment, discrimination, and other forms of mistreatment. It is essential to reduce inequalities in the workplace and facilitate transformation to a fairer future.
Principles of workplace dignity
- Diversity
Diversity in the workplace refers to the presence of individuals with a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives within an organization’s workforce. It encompasses a broad range of characteristics, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, socioeconomic status, and cultural background.
- Inclusion and belonging
When employees are included, they are valued for who they are, rather than just for what they can do for the organization. This sense of belonging can lead to increased motivation, engagement, and loyalty, which can improve individual and team performance and positively impact the organization’s work environment.
- Equity
Equity refers to the fair distribution of opportunities, resources, and rewards, taking into account the unique needs and circumstances of individuals. It is an essential component of workplace dignity because it promotes fairness and justice in the workplace. When an organization strives for equity, it ensures that all employees have access to the same opportunities, regardless of their background or identity. This can help to level the playing field, reduce discrimination, and promote diversity and inclusion.
- Psychological safety
Psychological safety refers to the belief that one can speak up, take risks, and share feedback without the fear of retaliation or negative consequences. It is a vital component of workplace dignity because it ensures that employees feel comfortable expressing themselves and contributing their ideas without fear of retribution or negative consequences. It also helps to prevent harassment, discrimination, and bullying in the workplace. Positive work environments are created when employees feel safe and supported.
- Growth mindset
A growth mindset refers to the belief that one’s abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work; there is a constant ability to improve despite current status. When individuals adopt a growth mindset in the workplace, they are more likely to be resilient and adaptable, willing to take risks and learn from their mistakes. This can lead to improved performance and innovation, as individuals are more willing to try new things with different approaches. When individuals are open to learning and growing, they are more likely to challenge their own assumptions and biases, leading to a more inclusive and equitable workplace.
Source: “What is Workplace dignity?” https://rfkhumanrights.org/our-programs/workplace-dignity/what-is-workplace-dignity
Ways to create a culture of dignity in the workplace
Workplace dignity begins with leadership because leaders set the tone for the organization’s culture and values. Leaders have the power to create an environment where employees feel respected, valued, and supported, or conversely, one where employees feel undervalued, disrespected, and unsupported.
Incorporating a culture of dignity into the recruitment process is essential to ensure that all candidates are treated fairly and respectfully throughout the hiring process. This includes creating a positive candidate experience that aligns with the organization’s values and promotes a sense of dignity and respect.
One way to incorporate a culture of dignity into the recruitment process is to ensure that the job descriptions and requirements are free from bias and promote inclusivity. This can be achieved by using gender-neutral language, avoiding discriminatory language or requirements, and including diversity and inclusion language in the job description.
Another way to promote a culture of dignity in the recruitment process is to ensure that the selection criteria and hiring process are fair and objective. This includes having clear and consistent evaluation criteria, providing equal opportunities for all candidates, and ensuring that the selection process is free from bias or discrimination.
Focusing on communication and compassion is a key strategy to create workplace dignity. Clear and respectful communication is essential to creating workplace dignity. This includes using inclusive language, listening actively, and treating others with respect and empathy. By communicating effectively, individuals are better able to understand each other’s perspectives and build stronger relationships based on trust and respect. Compassion is also important in promoting workplace dignity. When individuals show compassion towards their colleagues, they are better able to understand and empathize with their challenges and struggles.
Creating workplace dignity is an ongoing process of relationship management, as it involves building and maintaining positive relationships among colleagues and creating a culture of respect and inclusivity. This process requires consistent effort and attention, as relationships and cultures are constantly evolving.
Source: “9 Ways To Create a Company Culture of Dignity & Respect” https://www.gcu.edu/blog/business-management/9-ways-create-company-culture-dignity-respect
Nations, United. n.d. “Universal Declaration of Human Rights.” United Nations. United Nations. Accessed May 10, 2023. https://www.un.org/en/about-us/universal-declaration-of-human-rights.
Terkel. 2021. “9 Ways To Create a Company Culture of Dignity & Respect.” GCU. May 18, 2021. https://www.gcu.edu/blog/business-management/9-ways-create-company-culture-dignity-respect.
“What Is Workplace Dignity? | RFK Human Rights.” n.d. ROBERT F. KENNEDY HUMAN RIGHTS. Accessed May 10, 2023. https://rfkhumanrights.org/our-programs/workplace-dignity/what-is-workplace-dignity.