Workplace bullying and harassment w/ Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner, Saunoamaali’i Karanina Sumeo, Young Workers Help Centre Coordinator Caitlin Wilson, and Dr Mike Webster

New research published by the Human Rights Commission has shown there is a high prevalence of workplace bullying and harassment in Aotearoa with two in five people saying they have been bullied at work.

Young people, Māori, Pacific, Asian, as well as disabled and bisexual workers, were found to be disproportionately affected by bullying and harassment in the workplace. 

Firstly, Joe Wickins spoke to Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner, Saunoamaali’i Karanina Sumeo, who says people shouldn’t have to fear for their mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing while earning a living.  

“It is unacceptable that abuse is occurring and is so widespread in our workplaces. We are essentially failing our people." 

Then Jessica Hopkins spoke to Caitlin Wilson from the Young Workers Resource Centre about why young people are more likely to be on the receiving end of workplace bullying and harassment.  

Finally, Dr Mike Webster from The University of Auckland shares his thoughts on what causes a culture of bullying in the workplace and why it has been a prevalent issue in Aotearoa for so long.