Religious Freedom, Religious Discrimination and the Workplace

The book considers the extent to which religious interests are protected at work, with particular reference to the protection against religious discrimination provided by the Equality Act 2010. It establishes a principled basis for determining the proper scope of religious freedom at work, and considers the interaction of freedom of religion with the right not to be discriminated against on grounds of religion. Religion and belief discrimination can occur where secular employers refuse to employ or accommodate religious staff, as well as where religious groups refuse to employ those of a different religion or none. Adding to the complexity is the fact that freedom of religion is protected as a fundamental right which can be enjoyed by individuals and groups. Although it is a qualified right, its importance to individuals means that religious freedom may warrant a degree of protection in the workplace. The book locates the debates surrounding religion