What is it called when an unfavorable action is threatened against a military member or civilian employee for participating in the EEO or EO appeal process?

The term used to describe an unfavorable action that is threatened against a military member or civilian employee for participating in the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) or Equal Opportunity (EO) appeal process is known as reprisal. Reprisal specifically refers to an act of retaliation against an individual who has engaged in protected activities related to EEO or EO, such as filing a complaint or appealing a previous decision.

In the context of military and civilian employment, reprisal is a serious violation as it undermines the principles of fair treatment and the rights of individuals to seek redress without fear of negative repercussions. This is crucial for maintaining an environment where personnel can voice concerns and seek equitable treatment.

While retaliation is often used interchangeably with reprisal, in the legal context concerning EEO and EO, reprisal encompasses the specific punitive threats or actions linked to an individual's participation in the complaint process. Understanding the definition and nuances of reprisal helps ensure that all members are aware of their rights and the protections afforded to them during these processes.