Sexual Harassment At Workplace: Law, Policy, And Practice
- IJLLR Journal
- Mar 16
- 1 min read
Nisha S J, CSI Institute of Legal Studies, Parassala
INTRODUCTION
Sexual harassment at the workplace constitutes one of the most challenging social and legal issues of modern times. It is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that negatively affects an employee’s work environment or employment conditions. The repercussions of such conduct are not limited to the individual but extend to organizations in the form of reduced productivity, reputational damage, and increased turnover. Despite legislative interventions and institutional mechanisms, sexual harassment continues to be underreported due to fear of retaliation, social stigma, and lack of awareness about remedies. Understanding the nature of harassment, legal obligations, and organizational practices is critical to fostering safe and equitable workplaces.
I. Conceptual Framework of Sexual Harassment
A. Definition and Scope
Sexual harassment is primarily recognized as a form of gender-based discrimination that undermines the dignity and equality of the affected individual. According to the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), sexual harassment includes “any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, whether physical, verbal or non-verbal, that creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive work environment.”Globally, it is broadly categorized into two forms: quid pro quo harassment, where employment benefits are conditioned on submission to sexual advances, and hostile work environment harassment, which occurs when unwelcome conduct creates a toxic workplace atmosphere.
B. Forms of Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment manifests in multiple forms, each impacting employees differently.
