My employer pays married workers more
What you need to know:
Share your concerns with the human resources manager especially if this is verified information. The company might have to put in place a non-discrimination policy in case it doesn’t exist.
Why do employers pay married people more than the unmarried? Being young and single does not mean I do not need the money. I think it’s unfair. Bob.
Dear Bob,
Workplace discrimination can take different forms for instance, biased pay practices for employees who perform jobs that require the same responsibilities, skills and effort, denial of promotion for certain category of employees and leave denial for some workers.
Likewise an employer who pays married employees more than their unmarried counterparts based on the assumption that they have families to support, also engages in workplace discrimination. Fair treatment is an important aspect for all employees mainly because it gives them an opportunity to utilise their talents and potential. Employees who are subject to unfair treatment are intimidated, belittled, and psychologically distressed which affects their productivity rate.
The employment Act 2006, stipulates that every employer shall pay male and female equal remuneration for work of equal value. The Employment Act also prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, race, colour, religion, political opinion, disability and social origin among others. Hence the violations of workplace rights make the person involved liable to charges of discriminatory practices.
It is unfortunate that this is happening at your workplace, share your concerns with the human resources especially if this is verified information. The company might have to put in place a non-discrimination policy in case it doesn’t exist and also ensure that the human resource manual clearly states the rights and obligations of the employees.
Alice Nankya L. Nsibuka
HR business partner
NMG - Uganda
[email protected]
