Sexual harassment and sexual harassment policies in organisations in Ghana: Confessions of duty bearers
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Date
2015-04-17
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University of Ghana
Abstract
This study investigates the nature and level of implementation of
sexual harassment policies in formal organizations in Ghana. That the
phenomenon of sexual harassment is widespread albeit under- reported has been repeatedly stressed in the literature as well as in
many friendship and intimate interaction contexts. Its incidence is
high particularly among young women and therefore constitutes
sexual violence against them. The repercussions of sexual harassment
do not only undermine occupational well-being, health, and safety of
victims but also their marriages, families, workplace productivity and
thus society at large. In this paper, we interrogate the interface
between sexual harassment cases and the implementation of sexual
harassment policies at workplaces. More specifically, we explore the
nature of sexual harassment in work organisations, the perceptions,
and understandings of those who implement sexual harassment
policies in workplaces as well as the level of implementation of these
policies. The data come mainly from in-depth interviews with stakeholders
or duty bearers. On the basis of the findings, the need to
develop and implement a comprehensive sexual harassment policy at
organisational levels is identified as a crucial variable in combating
sexual harassment at workplaces in Ghana.
Description
School of social sciences colloquium
Keywords
sexual harassment, health, formal organizations, sexual violence