What is discrimination

The Constitution of Uganda prohibits discrimination in all its forms.

Under the law, discrimination means giving different treatment to different persons because of their sex, race, colour, ethnic origin, tribe, birth, creed or religion, social or economic standing, political opinion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other grounds.

Under the Employment Act, discrimination is giving different treatment to different employees based on their race, social background, sex, creed, history, disability, HIV/AIDs status, political opinion, etc.

What form does discrimination manifest at the workplace?

There are many forms in which discrimination manifests at the workplace. Some of them include:

• Giving different pay for the same work and position.
• Giving different benefits for different staff occupying the same position.
• Denial of benefits to different people because of their social or economic background.

Are organisations mandated to have non-discrimination policies?

No. However, whereas the law does not make it mandatory for an organization to have a non-discrimination policy, it is important for organizations to have such a policy in place to guide it in its work and the relationship between the staff, the organization, and its clients.

What remedies are available for someone who has been discriminated against at work

A person who has been discriminated against can handle the issue internally with the organization where the organization has a clearly laid out non-discrimination policy or systems. However, the person can choose to file a complaint/case outside the organization by making a complaint to the labour officer or to the courts of law.