Former Museum Director Demoted Following Workplace Bullying Investigation
In a significant move, Chen Su-fen (陳素芬), the former Director-General of the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology (NMMST) in Keelung, has been demoted in the civil service after an investigation revealed her involvement in workplace bullying. The investigation, conducted by the Ministry of Education (MOE), concluded that Chen’s management style created a hostile and unhealthy working environment.
The investigation was triggered by allegations made public in late October regarding Chen’s authoritarian behavior and poor emotional control, which reportedly led to high levels of stress and low morale among her staff. Deputy Education Minister Lin Teng-chiao (林騰蛟) outlined the findings of the independent committee that reviewed the case, explaining that Chen’s actions met the legal definition of workplace bullying.
Investigation Findings and Consequences for Chen
The independent committee, which included legal experts and social psychologists, found that Chen’s management style involved loudly berating subordinates, contributing to a toxic workplace culture. According to Lin, such behavior subjected museum employees to considerable emotional distress, affecting their work performance and overall well-being.
As a result of the investigation, Chen Su-fen was demoted from her position at the NMMST, dropping from Grade 13 to a Grade 12 non-managerial role in the civil service. This demotion will significantly affect her performance appraisals, future career opportunities, and chances for promotion.
In addition to the demotion, Chen received a demerit on her civil service record, which will impact her future career prospects. Furthermore, the investigation revealed that she violated civil servant conflict of interest laws by hiring a relative, which resulted in the termination of that hiree’s contract and the forwarding of evidence to the Control Yuan for further action.
| Key Findings of the Investigation | Actions Taken |
|---|---|
| Authoritarian management style | Demoted from Grade 13 to Grade 12 |
| Emotional stress caused to employees | Given a demerit on civil service record |
| Hiring of a second-degree relative | Termination of the hiree’s contract and referral to Control Yuan |
| Bullying behavior (loud berating of subordinates) | Impacted future career and promotions |
Impact on Taiwan’s Workplace Culture
The case involving Chen Su-fen comes amidst growing concerns about workplace bullying in Taiwan. Last month, a tragic incident involving a Labor Ministry staffer led to his suicide, allegedly due to bullying by a supervisor. This case has sparked public outcry and led to increased scrutiny of workplace behavior across both public and private sectors.
According to the MOE, 13 workplace bullying allegations have been filed in the past month, with nine cases still under investigation. The rise in workplace bullying cases has prompted the MOE and other government agencies to address the issue more rigorously, with stronger policies aimed at curbing such behaviors in the workplace.
Taiwan’s Efforts to Address Workplace Bullying
The Ministry of Education is taking active steps to combat workplace bullying and create a safer, more respectful working environment. These efforts include reviewing workplace practices, implementing stricter regulations on employee conduct, and providing support for victims of bullying. The ministry has pledged to continue investigating all allegations thoroughly to ensure accountability and fairness.
FAQs on Chen Su-fen’s Demotion and Workplace Bullying Allegations
1. What led to the demotion of Chen Su-fen?
Chen Su-fen was demoted after an investigation confirmed her involvement in workplace bullying at the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology. Her authoritarian management style and verbal abuse were found to have created a hostile working environment for employees.
2. What consequences did Chen face following the investigation?
As a result of the investigation, Chen was demoted from Grade 13 to Grade 12, received a demerit on her civil service record, and faced the termination of a family member’s contract due to a conflict of interest violation.
3. How many workplace bullying allegations have been received in Taiwan?
Since last month, the Ministry of Education has received 13 workplace bullying allegations, with nine still under investigation. This surge in reports has prompted government agencies to take stronger measures to address the issue.
4. How is Taiwan addressing workplace bullying?
Taiwan’s government is implementing policies to tackle workplace bullying, including investigating allegations thoroughly, reviewing workplace practices, and providing support for victims to ensure a safer work environment.
5. What is the significance of this case in Taiwan’s civil service?
This case underscores the importance of maintaining professionalism and respectful behavior in the workplace, particularly within the civil service. It reflects Taiwan’s growing commitment to addressing workplace bullying and improving employee well-being.
Conclusion
The demotion of Chen Su-fen serves as a reminder of the importance of respectful leadership and accountability in the workplace. The ongoing investigation and actions taken by the Ministry of Education highlight Taiwan’s growing efforts to address workplace bullying and create a supportive and healthy working environment for all employees.
