Love at work and the risk of unfair dismissal under Swiss law
3 Apr, 2023 by
The workplace is a place where employees spend most of their day. Working together with colleagues allows for the development of friendships and even romantic relationships. According to some surveys, one couple out of three has met at work. Between the risk of favoritism, conflict of interest, accusations of sexual harassment and breach of confidentiality, these romances are not always viewed favorably by companies.
Some companies have adopted a code of conduct to regulate personal relationships between employees. Are such rules legal? What are the risks for the employer in the event of dismissal?
This article looks at the following topics:
- Case study: the obligation to disclose a romantic relationship and the right to transfer or dismiss employees
- corporate fears and codes of conduct
- romantic relationships and the risk of getting out of hand
- respect for the employee's private sphere and personality
- risk of unfair dismissal and the employer's interests
- appropriate solution