What you need to know
- LinkedIn has changed its policy to allow posts that "express a preference for professionals from historically disadvantaged groups" in certain countries.
- The change came after LinkedIn received criticism for removing a post in Brazil that said black and indigenous candidates would be preferred.
- LinkedIn will still prohibit affirmative action hiring posts in countries in which the practice is illegal.
LinkedIn will now allow posts about job openings that express a preference for candidates from historically disadvantaged groups in certain countries. The company announced the change on Tuesday, March 29, 2022 after receiving criticism for removing a post by the Center for the Analysis of Freedom and Authoritarianism (LAUT). The news was first reported by Estadão (via ZDNet).
A post by LAUT said that preference would be given to black or indigenous candidates. LinkedIn removed the job listing because the platform prohibits discrimination based on age, disability, ethnicity, gender, race, sexual orientation, and other protected peoples. The company has since announced a change of policy.
"We have updated our global job posting policy to allow publication of publications that express a preference for professionals from historically disadvantaged groups in hiring in countries where this practice is considered legal," said LinkedIn in a press statement.
"In Brazil, affirmative vacancies are now allowed, including [job postings] for black and indigenous people. We appreciate the feedback we have received from our community in Brazil. Doing the right thing is important, and we are committed to continuing to learn and improve."
LinkedIn's stance change also followed action by the Brazilian government. Brazil's Public Prosecution Office informed LinkedIn that the removal of the job listing went against the country's constitution. LinkedIn was then given a deadline of 10 working days to explain the removal of the post. The company that had the post removed was also asked to share details.
