Second Probe into MOL Civil Servant’s Suicide Uncovers Workplace Bullying
A renewed investigation into the tragic suicide of a 39-year-old civil servant at Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor (MOL) has revealed disturbing evidence of workplace bullying. The second report, presented by Labor Minister Hung Sun-han (洪申翰) on Wednesday, paints a troubling picture of poor management practices and extreme work conditions leading up to the death of the civil servant, surnamed Wu (吳).
Background of the Incident
Wu, who worked at the Ministry’s Workforce Development Agency, took his own life on November 4, 2023. This investigation follows an earlier report released in mid-November, which sparked public backlash for its lenient stance toward Hsieh Yi-jung (謝宜容), the head of the New Taipei Office, who was criticized for her management style. The initial report dismissed Hsieh’s direct involvement in Wu’s death, instead labeling her as “well-intentioned.”
Key Findings from the New Investigation
Minister Hung emphasized that the second probe took a more comprehensive approach, involving interviews with Wu’s colleagues and an independent team of experts. This report highlights numerous instances of workplace misconduct under Hsieh’s management.
1. Unreasonable Workload and Stressful Environment
According to the findings, Hsieh assigned her staff “impossible tasks” and created a toxic work environment through yelling and berating subordinates. One of the most disturbing revelations was her demand for staff to engage in physical exercises, including running from the lobby to her office on the fourth floor, causing undue physical and mental exhaustion.
2. Unrealistic Expectations and Lack of Guidance
The investigation also found that Wu, who had little experience in employment services, was tasked with developing a “smart technology-assisted employment-facilitation project.” However, Hsieh failed to provide clear instructions or guidance, leaving Wu to repeatedly revise his work, which was constantly rejected as “not smart enough.”
Wu’s request for NT$35 million in funding for the project was drastically reduced to under NT$10 million due to “legal constraints” that were not explained to him. This mismanagement left Wu feeling defeated and unsupported.
3. Unusual Work Hours and Stress
Despite official work hours, Wu was often observed arriving at the office as early as 4 or 5 a.m., reflecting the intense pressure he faced. Two months before his death, Wu confided in his colleagues that he would end his life if the project could not be completed.
Impact and Consequences
Following the investigation’s findings, Hsieh Yi-jung was given two major demerits, which led to her immediate dismissal. She later issued a public apology, citing “poor emotional control” as the reason for her actions.
The scandal has also prompted the resignation of former Labor Minister Ho Pei-shan (何佩珊). Minister Hung Sun-han has vowed to take steps to prevent such incidents from occurring again, including implementing more stringent management protocols and promoting better work environments for civil servants.
FAQ:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What did the second investigation reveal about Wu’s workplace? | The second investigation found that Wu faced significant workplace bullying, including impossible tasks, unrealistic expectations, and physical exhaustion due to the demanding management style of his supervisor. |
| How did the initial report differ from the second investigation? | The initial report downplayed the impact of the supervisor’s actions, describing her as “well-intentioned” and not the direct cause of the suicide, whereas the second investigation found clear evidence of bullying and mistreatment. |
| What actions were taken against Hsieh Yi-jung? | Hsieh was given two major demerits, which led to her immediate dismissal from her position as head of the New Taipei Office. |
| What was the cause of Wu’s mental distress? | Wu’s mental distress stemmed from an overwhelming workload, lack of guidance, harsh criticism, and being asked to complete an unrealistic project with inadequate resources. |
| What are the next steps for the Ministry of Labor? | The Ministry plans to implement better management practices to ensure the well-being of civil servants and prevent future incidents of workplace bullying. |
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