Colombia: New Regulations Was Issued by the Ministry of Labour Preventing Discrimination and Harassment Against the LGBTIQ+ Community in the Workplace

On September 4th, the Ministry of Labour issued Circular 0055 aimed at preventing, identifying, addressing, and remedying cases of workplace and sexual harassment against the LGBTIQ+ community. This regulation calls on the public and private sectors to implement measures that foster inclusive, discrimination-free work environments.

The Ministry of Labour outlined the following key considerations on this matter:

• Inclusive hiring processes: Companies must ensure fair recruitment procedures and do not inquire about candidates’ sexual orientation, gender identity, or personal lives. The focus should remain solely on evaluating job-related skills and qualifications.
• Training for the Workplace Coexistence Committee: Committee members must receive training to prevent and address cases of workplace harassment, discrimination, and gender-based violence.
• Differential Approach in Policies and Protocols: All internal policies, regulations, and response protocols for sexual harassment must incorporate an approach that recognizes and safeguards the rights of the LGBTIQ+ community.
• Commitment to Equality: Companies should promote inclusive language and implement internal policies that foster gender equality and prevent discrimination. Human resources departments are also encouraged to be prepared to recognize signs of violence or discrimination against the LGBTIQ+ community.

Finally, the Ministry of Labour encourages companies to take urgent measures to prevent, address, and educate their personnel on issues related to workplace harassment, sexual harassment, violence prevention, and discrimination against individuals with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.

For additional information on any matter related to labour issues in Colombia, please contact Angélica María Carrión Barrero (Partner) of López & Asociados at angelica.carrion@lopezasociados.net or visit www.lopezasociados.net

For more information, please contact Joseph Granato, Communications Manager at L&E Global at joseph.granato@leglobal.org