Humor, Always Risky, Triggers Lawsuits in UK

 "... new research from law firm GQ Littler ... found that the number of claims at U.K. employment tribunals relating to 'banter' in the workplace increased 45% from 67 cases in 2020 to almost 100 last year." - Bloomberg, May 4, 2022. 

The offended party could experience that small talk, usually having a light humorous tone, as discrimination or harassment. Even if it takes place outside work hours it can land the speakers and their employers in a lawsuit. One woman won a case which involved being referred to by colleagues as a "bird." That is, a UK slang term for a female.

Much of the traditional joking around happens in high-stress lines of work such as trading. Humor can release the pressure. That coping mechanism may simply become verboten. Also, all conversation related to workplace has come under scrutiny in this global ESG era. 

However, as many in communications always knew: Humor has involved risk. That's because what is considered "funny" and "neutral" is subjective. One person's attempt at the comic can be interpreted as anything from defamation to bias. 

Connect with Editor-in-Chief Jane Genova at jaanegenova374@gmail.com.

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