Discrimination law | Sharp rise in 'protected beliefs' tribunal cases puts HR on notice

Employment tribunal cases involving ‘protected beliefs’ have risen 380% over the past five years. According to an analysis by employment law firm TWM Solicitors, such cases rose from just six instances in 2021 to 29 in 2025.

Protected belief cases involve employees alleging they were discriminated against, harassed or victimised at work because of religious or philosophical beliefs protected under the Equality Act 2010.

This is an area of discrimination law that has generated a series of interesting cases in recent years, with Employment Tribunals being asked to consider a wide range of beliefs. These include an unsuccessful claim by a Rangers FC fan, whilst there have been varying outcomes with claims based on support for political parties. Cases have seen ethical veganism found to be a protected belief, but not vegetarianism.

An analysis of recent cases has shown a number of topical issues featuring amongst the claims. Views relating to religion were the most common basis for claims, accounting for 31% of cases in the last year, whilst cases related to gender-critical views and transgender rights accounted for 24%.