A former employee of telecom giant Orange has launched a legal battle against the company, claiming she was subjected to 'forced inactivity' and discrimination due to her gender and parental responsibilities.
Laurence Van Wassenhove, who worked at Orange's French headquarters, alleges she was systematically sidelined after returning from maternity leave, effectively being pushed out of meaningful work while still remaining on the payroll.
The Allegations
Van Wassenhove's case centres around claims that:
- She was deliberately excluded from important projects
- Her responsibilities were gradually stripped away
- She was denied opportunities for career advancement
- The company created an impossible work environment
'This is a classic case of constructive dismissal through forced inactivity,' her legal team stated. 'Rather than firing her outright, they made her professional life so unbearable that resignation became the only option.'
Corporate Culture Under Scrutiny
The lawsuit has reignited debates about workplace discrimination in the tech and telecom sectors, particularly regarding:
- The treatment of working mothers
- Subtle forms of gender discrimination
- Corporate strategies to avoid direct termination
Orange has faced similar allegations in the past, though the company maintains robust diversity and inclusion policies on paper.
Potential Ramifications
Legal experts suggest this case could set important precedents for:
- How 'forced inactivity' is defined in employment law
- Protections for employees returning from parental leave
- Corporate accountability for indirect discrimination
A spokesperson for Orange stated: 'We take all employee concerns seriously and are reviewing the details of this case. Orange remains committed to equal opportunities for all staff.'
The case is expected to proceed through French employment tribunals in the coming months, with potential implications for multinational corporations across Europe.
