Sejm Passes Anti-Mobbing Legislation to Overhaul Workplace Protection

The Polish Sejm has passed a significant amendment to the Labor Code and Civil Procedure Code, establishing a simplified definition of mobbing and increasing minimum compensation for victims of workplace harassment.

Legislative Approval

The Sejm passed the amendment to the Labor Code and the Code of Civil Procedure with 236 votes in favor, 24 against, and 178 abstentions. Lawmakers also approved an extension of three months for the implementation of the new provisions.

Redefining Workplace Mobbing

The amendment simplifies the definition of mobbing, classifying it as repetitive, recurring, or constant behavior originating from supervisors, colleagues, subordinates, or groups. These actions can be physical, verbal, or non-verbal in nature.

Recognition of mobbing is now independent of the perpetrator’s intent or the specific consequences produced. Furthermore, the legislation defines ordering or encouraging such behavior as mobbing itself.

Increased Compensation and Employer Obligations

Victims are now entitled to seek compensation from their employer of at least six times the minimum wage. Employers are legally required to establish specific anti-mobbing procedures and rules within their workplace regulations or official notices.

Companies are also mandated to implement preventive measures, respond actively to reports of harassment, and provide real support to individuals experiencing violence in the workplace.