In certain circumstances, it can be impermissible for an employer to demote an employee. For example, in some jurisdictions it is illegal to demote an employee who has acted as a whistleblower, in retaliation for their reporting of violations of the law to appropriate authorities.

It may also be impermissible to demote an employee due to their race, religion, or physical disability. In some instances, where an employee has a religious restriction or physical limitation that prevents them from carrying