PROTECTION OF EMPLOYEES FROM MOBBING: LEGAL MECHANISMS AND IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES

Abstract

The article examines the phenomenon of workplace mobbing as one of the most dangerous forms of psychological violence within labor relations, posing a serious threat to the realization of employees’ rights to dignified and safe working conditions. The essence, key characteristics, and consequences of mobbing for both employees and organizations are defined. It is emphasized that systematic harassment in the workplace leads not only to emotional and psychological harm but also to violations of labor rights, reduced productivity, and deterioration of the overall organizational climate.

The study analyzes the current state of legal regulation aimed at preventing and combating mobbing in Ukraine. Special attention is paid to recent amendments to the Labor Code of Ukraine, which officially prohibit mobbing as a form of discrimination. The article highlights the rights of employees to protection against psychological pressure and the obligations of employers to ensure a safe and respectful working environment.

The author identifies major problems in the implementation of existing legal mechanisms, such as difficulties in proving mobbing cases, lack of effective investigation procedures, insufficient legal awareness among employees, and weak institutional control.

Finally, the paper proposes directions for improving legislation and practice: clearer legal definitions of mobbing, internal reporting and prevention mechanisms, promotion of legal literacy, and development of a zero-tolerance corporate culture. It concludes that only a comprehensive approach – combining legal, organizational, and educational measures – can ensure real protection of workers and strengthen the principle of human dignity in the workplace.