Graphic game at company party causes global 'shock'

There’s a thin line between workplace “banter” and harassment - one which HR has to remind employees of constantly.  And whilst having fun at work can bring staff together and build relationships, going too far can bring about a lawsuit.

Staff at a Chinese company recently came under fire for allegedly forcing female workers to perform degrading acts on stage at the firm’s annual dinner – The Daily Mail reports.

Technology company Tencent was accused of perpetuating workplace sexism and misogyny, after videos emerged of female employees trying to open water bottles which were placed between male colleagues’ legs, whilst on stage. Tencent has since apologised for the incident, and claims that the male employees in question have been disciplined.

The incident has sparked outrage amongst firms in China, with some claiming that more needs to be done to eradicate this sort of behaviour. Speaking to Bangkok Post, Rui Ma, a former investor at 500 Startups, said: “I’m quite shocked that this happened at Tencent.