Across Mongolia, a crucial movement is unfolding - one that champions workplaces where respect, safety, and dignity are the fundamental rights of every worker. Since the new Labour Law came into force on 1 January 2022, the country has achieved significant strides in protecting workers' rights. However, the issue of workplace violence and harassment, including gender-based violence, remains a significant challenge, both in the public and private sectors.

A study by the National Human Rights Commission of Mongolia highlighted a concerning statistic: one in two workers have encountered some form of bullying or harassment at work, causing not only emotional and physical harm but also economic repercussions for families and businesses alike. A survey of 3,000 civil servants revealed that one-quarter had experienced workplace violence or harassment, while nearly 80% felt uninformed about how to prevent or address sexual harassment. These figures highlight the ongoing and deep-rooted nature of the problem.

 

Collaboration at the Heart of Change

Responding to this urgent need, Mongolia is addressing this challenge head-on with the support of the Trade for Decent Work Project. A key part of this effort is the examination of ILO Convention No.190, which offers a global framework for eliminating violence and harassment in the workplace.

"The Trade for Decent Work project is creating a space for dialogue and collaboration among all stakeholders" says Mr. Zulpkhar Sarkha, former Mongolian Deputy Minister for Labour and Social Protection.

This is not merely a policy discussion but a collective effort -a shared vision for a safer, more respectful work environment for all. Every step forward reflects the commitment of Mongolia's tripartite partners to building a future where every worker is treated with dignity and respect.

 

Engaging Workers and Employers: Campaigns that Drive Change

In 2022, the 16 Days of Activism campaign became a key milestone in raising awareness about workplace violence and harassment. Partnering with the National Human Rights Commission of Mongolia, the campaign reached over 620,000 people through social media, offering crucial information on ILO Convention 190 and national laws. It empowered individuals to recognize harassment and take action against it, while also emphasizing the shared responsibility of both employers and workers in fostering safer workplaces.

In 2023, a follow-up campaign engaged another 540,000 individuals, spreading the message of zero tolerance for harassment. Through short, impactful videos and interviews with legal experts and workers, the campaign highlighted how different forms of harassment can be addressed, sparking important conversations about safety at work. These campaigns have resulted in a growing shift in public attitudes about violence at work.

 

 

Supporting Employers to Create Harassment-Free Workplaces

Change is taking root across sectors and industries in Mongolia. The Mongolian Employers' Federation (MONEF), in partnership with the Project, has played a crucial role by translating and adapting ILO's Violence and Harassment at Work: A Practical Guide for Employers, and organizing follow-up training for its members to create safer work environments. Before these initiatives, many employers struggled to effectively address workplace violence. "We didn't know how to approach it," says Mr. Ganbaatar Khuyag[1], Executive Director of MONEF. "But thanks to this initiative, we are now able to offer real support and services to our member companies," he adds.

 

 

Beyond training, MONEF, in collaboration with the project, worked closely with enterprises to help them develop internal regulations in line with Mongolia's Labour Law, ensuring long-lasting, practical changes. For instance, human resource managers from various enterprises have developed internal rules and regulations based on ILO's "Violence and Harassment at Work: A Practical Guide for Employers."

 

The training and policy changes have transformed how we operate. Our employees now feel secure, and our managers are better equipped to handle situations involving harassment or violence.

Tuvshingtugs Balsan Head of Administration and HR at Misheel Group

At Misheel Group LLC - a construction and real estate enterprise - the changes have been particularly impactful. In 2020, high staff turnover and low employee engagement pointed to underlying issues. Through its partnership with MONEF, Misheel Group revamped its policies, creating a safer, more respectful environment for its 176 employees, including the 14% of staff who have disabilities. Staff engagement rose from 90% to 98%, and employees reported feeling safer and more supported.

Ms. Tuvshingtugs Balsan, Head of Administration and HR at Misheel Group, notes, "The training and policy changes have transformed how we operate. Our employees now feel secure, and our managers are better equipped to handle situations involving harassment or violence."

These changes are deeply meaningful for workers like Ms. Sarandagina Nyambuudorj, a 23-year-old employee at Misheel Group. "Now, I understand what harassment is and how I can protect myself and my colleagues," she remarked. "I no longer hesitate to speak up, and I know that my workplace is committed to my safety."

 

I no longer hesitate to speak up, and I know that my workplace is committed to my safety.

Sarandagina Nyambuudorj Employee of Misheel Group

 

For Mr. Gankhuu Enkhtur, a security officer at the same company, the training shifted his understanding of workplace violence.

I used to think it was only about physical harm, but now I understand it's much more than that. It's about creating a respectful environment for everyone.

Mr. Gankhuu Enkhtur Security Officer of Misheel Group

 

Building a Zero-Tolerance Culture for the Future

The movement for safer workplaces in Mongolia is gaining momentum. Businesses across the country are adopting best practices, supported by projects like Trade for Decent Work and the continued cooperation between tripartite partners. Over one million people have been reached through awareness campaigns, and more enterprises are embracing violence-free workplace policies.

The commitment is not just about meeting legal requirements or ticking boxes; it's about fostering a new workplace culture - one that prioritizes respect and safety for everyone. Looking ahead, the goal is to sustain and grow this movement. More employers are committing to a zero-tolerance culture, and more workers are stepping forward with the knowledge of their rights. The collective drive to eliminate workplace violence and harassment is not just transforming work environments, but also creating ripple effects throughout society. As this movement strengthens, one message remains clear: a safer, harassment-free Mongolia is not only possiblle - it is within reach. By continuing to work together, Mongolia is building a future where every worker can thrive in a workplace free from fear, and where mutual respect forms the foundation of success.

[1] Mr. Ganbaatar Khuyag passed away in July 2024.