Tool for equal opportunities situational assessment in the workplace
About this good practice
The ruler was created in response to the need of employers in Lithuania to receive consultations when preparing and implementing Equal opportunity policies and (or) Equality action plans in the workplace. Detailed situation analysis is the first step in developing targeted and workplace-specific measures to ensure equal opportunities. The questionnaire covers four topics: Communication culture in the organization (Do we tend to notice or discuss each other’s gender, age, disability, origin, etc. at work?) Work relations processes: employment, training, promotion, salary determination, management culture, work-life balance (Are equal opportunities ensured in these processes?) Employees’ (dis)approval of various forms of discrimination (Do we recognize and how do we evaluate discriminatory situations at work?) Equal opportunities policy from the perspective of the employee (Do the employees agree with the current situation and what do they expect in the future?) Based on the data collected from surveys of both the employer and the employees, Office of the Equal Opportunities Ombudsperson provides the organisation a score on a ten-point scale together with a detailed report and recommendations on how to ensure equal opportunities in the workplace.
Starting in 2020, entities can use this tool to measure how effectively equal opportunities policies are implemented at the workplace and to get consultation on how to implement these policies more effectively.
Resources needed
The estimated amount to implement such a tool is from 200,000–385,000 EUR, covering costs for IT system development and maintenance and human resources, inc. legal support and consultations, questionnaire development, data collection, analysis and maintenance, and consultation with organizations.
Evidence of success
The implementation of tool has shown promising results in promoting workplace equality. Many larger companies have actively participated in the assessment, demonstrating their commitment to fostering inclusive work environments, reported improved employee satisfaction, better alignment with legal requirements.
Furthermore, the tool has contributed to raising awareness about equality issues, helping businesses identify gaps in their practices and implement targeted actions to promote diversity.
Potential for learning or transfer
This obligation under Article 26 of the Lithuanian Labour Code was introduced to promote equality and prevent discrimination in workplaces, particularly in larger organizations. It aligns with EU directives (e.g., 2006/54/EC and 2000/78/EC) on equal treatment in employment. The requirement typically applies to companies with over 50 employees, as larger organizations tend to face more complex equality challenges.
While smaller organizations are not legally required to implement such measures, tools like the Equality Index can still be used voluntarily to foster inclusive practices and demonstrate social responsibility.
Further information
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.