2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the UK's Sex Discrimination Act. The Sex Discrimination Act 1975 came into force in December 1975. It was intended to make certain types of sex and marriage discrimination unlawful, and established a Commission (the Equal Opportunities Commission, now the Equality and Human Rights Commission, or EHRC) to work towards the elimination of such discrimination and to promote equality of opportunity between men and women.
At Baker McKenzie, we're using 2025 as an opportunity to look back at 1975 and reflect on how far we had come - but also to look ahead, considering the challenges that remain in a world where both discrimination and equality of opportunity are as topical and important as they have ever been. To understand the importance and relevance today of the Sex Discrimination Act and this anniversary, we spoke to leading employment and ID&E experts to explore how the act has helped shaped employer approaches to equality in the workplace.
It’s about giving space to hear all voices and to amplify meritocracy and level a playing field that has historically been uneven.
Fatima Choudhary, EMEA Director of Global Inclusion, Diversity and Equity at Baker McKenzie
The Sex Discrimination Act of 1975 was an important step on the path towards sex equality, laying the groundwork for subsequent legislation and policies that protect against discrimination on many other protected characteristics.
While we have made considerable progress, the journey towards a fully inclusive workplace continues.
To discuss Inclusion, Diversity and Equity related matters with our team, please contact your regular Baker McKenzie contact, or one of the key team members listed below.
