Age Discrimination in South Africa: Safeguarding the Rights of Older Employees
08 November 2024
Age discrimination, especially in the context of employment, is a pervasive issue across many countries, including South Africa. In the... labour law framework of South Africa, age is a prohibited ground of discrimination under the Employment Equity Act (EEA). The rise of aging populations and the increased need for extended working careers have forced employers to rethink their policies concerning older employees. Age-based dismissals, if not handled carefully, could lead to legal ramifications and damage to the company’s reputation. This article explores the complexities surrounding age discrimination in South African labour law, focusing on the responsibilities of employers when dealing with age-related dismissals and what safeguards are in place to protect employees.