A Scoping Review on Heteronormativity in African Workplaces

Abstract

The increasing globalisation of the corporate world has intensified interactions among individuals from diverse backgrounds. One significant change in the workplace is the increased participation of LGBTQ+ employees in contemporary organisations. Despite the progress made in recognising the rights of sexual minorities in some African countries, there remains a prevalent issue of sexual orientation discrimination, grounded in the belief that heterosexuality is the societal norm, a concept known as heteronormativity. Existing literature underscores the pervasive discrimination based on sexual orientation, which negatively affects the well-being and work performance of LGBTQ+ employees. While some individuals find happiness and meaning despite these challenges, research in the African context remains limited. This article conducts a scoping review to synthesise Afrocentric evidence on heteronormativity in the workplace. The review explores how heteronormativity manifests, is reinforced, and impacts on individuals and organisations within the African context. The article further examines how LGBTQ+ employees navigate this heteronormative work environment. This scoping review identifies and analyses 13 studies focusing primarily on African countries, revealing discrimination, gender inequality, sexism, and workplace heteronormativity as common themes. These themes emphasise the need for comprehensive approaches to promote equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplaces in Africa, recognising the unique challenges within this context. The findings underscore the urgency of addressing heteronormative norms to construct more inclusive and equitable workplaces for all.