Which term describes discrimination that occurs when a policy is neutral in form but disadvantages a protected group in practice?

• A. Direct discrimination
• B. Indirect discrimination
• C. Stigmatisation
• D. Harassment

Answer: (B)

Discrimination that comes from a policy that is neutral in form but disadvantages a protected group in practice is indirect discrimination. The rule applies to everyone, but its effects fall more heavily on a protected group, and there isn’t a legitimate, proportionate justification for that impact. For example, a workplace requirement that all staff must work on weekends can indirectly discriminate against people who observe religious practices on those days, even though the rule is written as neutral and equal.

This is different from direct discrimination, where the policy itself targets a protected group. Stigmatisation involves negative labeling that devalues a person or group, and harassment means unwanted conduct based on a protected characteristic. Indirect discrimination focuses on the real-world impact of a neutral rule.