What is marital status discrimination?

As its name suggests, marital status discrimination is workplace discrimination based on an employee’s marital status. It can occur whether you are married or single. Note that, however, whilst civil marriage ceremonies are recognized – and lead to a legally-recognized marriage between husband and wife – civil partnerships (also known as ‘civil unions’) of cohabiting couples are not recognized in China.

The unlawful discrimination arises when an employer makes employment decisions based on this status. Conduct may include the denial of employment, employment opportunities or promotions, harassment, unequal pay and/or other negative actions.