Acting against sexism” kit
The “Acting against sexism” kit is one of the latest tools developed by the Conseilsupérieur de l’égalité professionnelle entre les femmes et les hommes (CSEP) to combat sexism in the workplace. For the first time, the word “sexism” has been included in the French Labor Code, with a new specific provision on “sexist conduct”.
The “Acting against sexism” kit addresses a workplace issue that affects recruitment, career progression and employee wellbeing. It can help organisations recognise inappropriate behaviours and develop a shared understanding of respectful professional relationships.
Improving representation is not a one-off communication campaign. It involves the pathways into technical training, the experience of employees after recruitment and the way leadership opportunities are distributed. Professional networks can connect people, share good practices and broaden participation. Historic initiatives are part of this longer journey; their value should be recognised without implying that the underlying challenges have disappeared.
Effective prevention requires more than a written policy. Training managers, defining clear reporting channels and handling concerns fairly are important parts of a credible approach. Organisations should also review their procedures in light of current legal requirements.