Labor relations in danger: Legislative analysis of pathological relationship phenomena in Slovakia and in foreign countries

Research background: Every day, many employees face discrimination at work. Work is good for your health, but it may also be dangerous and damaging. It promotes self-confidence, quality of life, and self-affirmation, all of which contribute to higher self-esteem. At the same time, it provides benefits such as self-esteem, social support, and social integration. However, we must recognize that a person can only work till his physical and mental health allow it. Purpose of the article: In the scientific contribution, we provide a comprehensive view of the issue of pathological relationships in the workplace, their occurrence, elimination, consequences, and types. The aim of the scientific contribution is to analyse and compare the legal arrangements for pathological relationships in the workplace in Slovakia and in selected countries of the world and to create recommendations for Slovak legislation. Methods: The methods of analysis, deduction, induction, comparison of data collection and graphic display were used in the research. Findings & Value added: The Slovak Republic does not have specific legislation dealing with workplace bullying, similar to Russia, Kazakhstan or Turkmenistan. These countries include, for example, Italy, where, however, for a long-time scientific worker and the legal community have been warning about the absence of legislation. In Australia, there is a Fair Work Commission (FWC), which, however, already defines bullying and can even be appealed to by an employee. The organization then investigates the issue of bullying. On the other hand, we have countries like Colombia, which has had its legislation since 2006, or Romania since 2020.