Ryan FowlerCompanies must take stronger action to address toxic workplace cultures that enable microaggressions and silence victims, according to new research from Vlerick Business School.
The study found that women often remain silent after facing microaggressions, relying instead on coping strategies because of organisational cultures that discourage open discussion. The researchers warn that many companies focus on formal equality policies while failing to tackle the covert forms of discrimination that persist.
The research was led by Delia Mensitieri, a doctoral student at Vlerick Business School and Ghent University, alongside Professor Smaranda Boroș and Professor Claudia Toma. The team analysed more than 700 accounts of microaggressions shared by over 125 women, examining how they responded and whether their employers offered tools or support.
The findings revealed that many women misinterpret microaggressions as harmless, question their intent, or feel powerless to report them. Over time, this creates resignation, disengagement, and in some cases, prompts women to leave their jobs. The researchers note that women only feel able to address such incidents when their workplace environment feels safe and supportive.
“For too long, the message has been that women need to speak up when they face microaggressions,” the researchers said. “Our research shows that the problem isn’t women staying silent—it’s the workplace cultures that make speaking up risky or impossible.”
The researchers recommend a two-step approach for employers: dismantling systemic silencing mechanisms through open dialogue, accountability and bystander training, and providing practical, stage-specific support to help employees recognise and respond to subtle workplace bias.
They conclude that employers must actively create environments where women are empowered, supported and genuinely heard, rather than silenced by toxic norms disguised as professionalism.
