Race discrimination claims leading to Employment Tribunals in the UK rose by a massive 48% in 2020, amidst the global Black Lives Matter movement and the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to ACAS, there were a total of 3,641 Employment Tribunal cases for race discrimination during the year, compared to 2,464 cases recorded in 2019. It seems 2021’s figure could be equally as high, with a reported 1,734 cases as of 30 June.

Race discrimination has been in the spotlight since the tragic murder of George Floyd by a US police officer and the ensuing Black Lives Matter movement, so it is perhaps no surprise that employees have felt more inspired to claim race discrimination in the workplace. As a result, companies have faced mounting pressure to up their diversity and inclusion commitments.

Says Employment Partner at Keystone Law, Sarah Garth:

“The Black Lives Matter movement has quite rightly highlighted the importance of eradicating race discrimination in all areas including the workplace and it is no doubt a significant factor leading to the surge in claims. We saw a similar surge in sex discrimination claims following the #MeToo movement.”

Garth said businesses should review their Equal Opportunities Policies and offer regular anti-discrimination training to their workforce. She added:

“Employers can reduce the risk of claims by ensuring they have a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination. This message should come from senior management to set the right culture throughout the business and should apply not only during the working relationship but also during the job application process.”