Digital Boundaries: What actions could an employer take?
In recent years, the sprawling effect of social media has transfused every aspect of modern life, including the workplace. Behind the casual tweets, shares, and posts are underlying currents of speech that can occasionally turn into topics of controversy, discrimination, or political activism. Controversial speech includes expressions that challenge societal norms and provoke discussions; discriminatory speech, however, targets individuals or groups based on identity characteristics that lead to exclusion or harm; and political speech relates to commentary on political figures, policies, or events that often polarise opinion. These forms of expression can be problematic for employers as they navigate the complex interplay between an individual's freedom of speech and the potential impact such expressions might have on the workplace dynamics, public perception, and legal responsibilities of an organisation.