Employers must tackle office culture as harassment complaints spike
Statistics point to a culture in which harassment is considered acceptable. Employers must make clear that misconduct will not be tolerated
The rise does not necessarily mean more harassment is taking place. It might be an encouraging sign that victims are more willing to take action.
But the statistics show that sexual misconduct at places of work continues to take a toll. There must be no let-up in efforts to curb it. A survey conducted last year by the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, with other groups, produced disturbing results. It found that 34 per cent of female respondents had suffered workplace sexual harassment in the previous three years, including text messages, jokes or requests for sexual favours. Some endured inappropriate physical contact.
More than 60 per cent of the victims did nothing about it. This points to a workplace culture in which harassment is considered acceptable and women fear the consequences of making a complaint. The watchdog is working with the business sector to tackle abuse. This includes encouraging companies to establish internal codes of conduct and channels for complaints.
Efforts are being made by the EOC to generate greater awareness, with talks and seminars, videos and social media posts. This year the body will launch a citywide campaign, including an anti-sexual harassment resource platform and a hotline. This is a positive step, but more needs to be done.
Sexual harassment is prohibited by law, which defines it as unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that offends, humiliates or intimidates a victim or creates a hostile environment. Employers must step up efforts to make themselves and their workforce more aware of sexual harassment and leave no doubt that such conduct will not be tolerated. The message must be strongly conveyed.