Former Oxfam Boss to Sue Charity Following Dismissal
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Halima Begum, former Oxfam GB head, will sue the charity for constructive dismissal, claiming a 'hostile' environment forced her resignation.
Halima Begum, the former chief executive of Oxfam GB, is set to launch legal action against the organization. Begum's legal team asserts that she was constructively dismissed, essentially forced out of her position.
According to her solicitors, Begum's resignation was prompted by what they describe as "hostile, victimising and discriminatory conduct" on the part of Oxfam. They further stated that she "entirely denies the defamatory and unfounded criticism of her."
Begum's departure from the charity occurred after an independent review, which the organization says revealed "serious issues" related to her behavior and decision-making. Oxfam's board of trustees ultimately concluded that her position was "untenable" due to what they characterized as an "irretrievable breakdown in its trust and confidence" in her leadership.
Lawrence Davies, Begum's solicitor, stated that his client alleges she was and continues to be subjected to "a victimising witch-hunt." He added, "The truth of what actually happened will be revealed in due course," and that Begum has reported "various public interest matters" to the Charity Commission.
Constructive dismissal, as defined by legal standards, occurs when an employee is compelled to leave their job because the employer has created an unbearable or hostile work environment.
The Times reported that approximately 70 Oxfam staff members signed a letter urging an investigation into Begum's conduct, and that several employees reportedly resigned following disagreements with her.
In response, an Oxfam spokesperson stated that the organization's trustees are obligated to review any complaints that are raised. "In line with our policies a review was carried out by an independent specialist consultancy with recognised expertise in workplace culture, equity, and inclusion," the spokesperson said. They added, "We have great respect for colleagues who have raised concerns about culture. Their perspectives informed an independent review that took place," and that "Oxfam's commitment to openness and learning will strengthen our organisation and the work we do across the world."
