Employment equity (EE) is the framework under the Employment Equity Act requiring designated employers in South Africa to eliminate unfair discrimination and implement affirmative action measures so the workforce reflects the demographics of the economically active population.
What it means
A designated employer (broadly, one above a size threshold) must develop an employment equity plan with numerical targets, and report progress against it. The law also prohibits unfair discrimination on listed grounds for every employer, designated or not.
Where it fits in
Employment equity reporting draws on HR and payroll data - occupational levels, race, gender and disability status mapped against pay - which is why the annual report depends on accurate position and employee records rather than payroll figures alone.
Key rules
- EE = employment equity, under the Employment Equity Act.
- Designated employers must set numerical targets and report progress.
- Unfair discrimination is prohibited for every employer, not only designated ones.
- Reporting depends on accurate position and demographic data, not just pay data.
