Humour is part of everyday working life, but it is not subject to any special legal exemption. When comments become humiliating, sexist, discriminatory or recurrent, the intention to be funny is no longer sufficient to rule out the risk of disciplinary action.
In an article published by Courrier Cadres, our Partner Myrtille Lapuelle examines the limits of freedom of expression in the workplace, the distinction between professional and private life, and the responsibilities of managers and employers when faced with inappropriate behaviour.
Beyond an isolated joke, the assessment now focuses increasingly on the context, the wider workplace environment and the actual impact of the comments on employees. This development places dignity, health and safety back at the heart of the analysis.
Read the article in Courrier Cadres (juillet-août 2026).
