Taipei, Taiwan – The National Development Council (NDC) has taken immediate action after an internal investigation confirmed that the director of its Department of Overall Planning was involved in workplace bullying. The investigation, conducted by an independent task force, concluded that the official had subjected subordinates to harsh treatment, leading to a recommendation for her demotion to a nonsupervisory role.
Investigation Findings and Consequences
The NDC swiftly launched an internal probe into the allegations following news reports that accused the department head of creating a toxic work environment. The investigation was completed within one week, and it was confirmed that the director’s actions contributed to a high-pressure work environment, poor emotional control, and difficulties for employees in requesting time off.
The investigation was led by a special task force, which included one NDC staff member and three independent experts—a lawyer, a counseling psychologist, and a mental health professional. The team conducted interviews with current and former employees and surveyed all department staff to gather feedback on the workplace atmosphere.
| Allegation | Investigation Outcome | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Workplace Bullying | Confirmed involvement in creating a toxic environment | Demotion to nonsupervisory role |
| Emotional Control Issues | Employees reported difficulties with work pressure | Support through psychological counseling |
| Difficulty in Requesting Time Off | Lack of clear approval process for leave requests | Review and update of internal policies |
The task force found that the official had engaged in workplace bullying, which negatively impacted employee morale and led to a high turnover rate in the department. In response, the NDC took action by removing the director from her supervisory position and implementing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
NDC’s Response: New Policies and Employee Support
In light of this case, the National Development Council announced several measures to prevent workplace bullying in the future. These include:
- Revising internal policies to ensure complaints are promptly filed and acted upon.
- Shortening the investigation process for bullying claims.
- Providing psychological counseling services and training for all staff on identifying and addressing workplace bullying.
- Raising awareness among section heads about their conduct and its impact on their teams.
In addition, the NDC emphasized the importance of creating a supportive work environment for all employees, where issues like work pressure and emotional control are addressed proactively.
Broader Impact of Workplace Bullying in Taiwan
This case comes amid growing concerns about workplace bullying in Taiwan’s public sector. The recent suicide of a Ministry of Labor (MOL) employee, allegedly linked to workplace bullying, has highlighted the serious consequences of toxic work environments. The incident has led to investigations into multiple cases of bullying across government agencies, including the Ministry of Health and Welfare, where several officials are under investigation.
In the wake of these incidents, calls for mental health support and a zero-tolerance policy for workplace bullying have intensified.
Conclusion: The Need for Comprehensive Workplace Reforms
The removal of the NDC director is just one step in addressing a wider issue within Taiwan’s government institutions. As workplace bullying continues to be a serious concern, the National Development Council is committed to ensuring that employees are provided with the resources and protections they need to work in a healthy and supportive environment. The council’s efforts to revise policies and provide psychological support aim to build a safer workplace for all public sector employees.
