Workplace Bullying: A Critical Look at Legal Protection in Brazil and Portugal

Abstract

Work saves us from three great evils: boredom, vice, and necessity (Voltaire). The present study deals with intersubjective relationships in the workplace, which are naturally conflicting and potentially capable of affecting individuals, both physically and psychologically, and results from the realization that some behaviors in the workplace can configure situations of harassment in the workplace, curtailing dignity, self-esteem, quality of life and workers’ rights. Faced with this objective reality, it is possible to perceive the legal protection existing in countries such as Portugal and Brazil, in the application of the law, regarding the protection and guarantee of a dignifying workplace. To that end, the question of this research lies in the analysis of the relevant legislation in the two countries, in the search of the gaps that favor, in a certain way, the practice of these harassing behaviors. The methodology adopted for the study is a review of the literature. The results point to the existence of broad protection legislation in both countries, but with little use and low effectiveness. It is hoped that this study will disseminate knowledge in order to stimulate new and in-depth studies in the area.