Role of HR in Managing Workplace Conflict and Employee Relations

Workplace conflict is an inevitable feature of organisational life, arising from differences in communication styles, work pressures, values, and interpersonal dynamics. This research paper examines the role of the Human Resources (HR) department in managing workplace conflict and nurturing healthy employee relations. Based on a primary survey of 115 respondents and an extensive review of over 20 academic studies published between 2001 and 2025, the study investigates conflict prevalence, root causes, and the effectiveness of HR-led interventions. Key findings reveal that 72.8% of employees have experienced workplace conflict — primarily driven by work pressure (37.2%) and communication gaps (40%). While HR is broadly perceived as fair and prompt, a critical gap exists: fewer than half (47%) of employees feel comfortable approaching HR. The paper recommends that HR transition from a reactive conflict-resolver to a proactive organisational partner by building psychological safety, regularising communication training, and investing in preventive frameworks.