Male bosses exploiting overseas trips for sexual harassment of female staff – minister

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Summary:

• Gender Minister Betty Amongi reveals that male bosses exploit foreign trips to coerce female staff into sexual activities, hindering gender equality, as 40 private sector companies receive Gender Equality Seal awards in Uganda.

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Gender Minister Betty Amongi has revealed that numerous male supervisors in both private and public sectors exploit foreign trips as a means to coerce female employees into engaging in sexual activities. This prevalent form of sexual harassment, she asserts, obstructs the advancement of gender equality initiatives in workplaces.

Ms. Amongi cited an example, stating, “The boss plans a work trip to the UK and, despite making advances, proposes, ‘Let’s take a trip together.’ Upon reaching the UK, with rooms strategically adjacent, the vulnerable situation arises.” She emphasized the dilemma faced by the victim in a foreign country, further highlighting the power dynamics that are often exploited in such situations.

The minister underscored the broader issue, explaining how individuals in positions of power use their authority to sexually harass female colleagues in the workplace, linking it to promotions and other perks. She acknowledged that even those who resisted advances in the past may succumb when placed in such compromising circumstances.

Speaking at the Gender Equality Seal Awards ceremony in Kampala, organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Private Sector Foundation of Uganda (PSFU), Amongi commended private sector companies for their efforts in promoting gender equality. Forty companies received the Gender Equality Seal (GES) Gold, Silver, and Bronze certifications for incorporating gender equality into their workplace policies and business strategies.

Despite legal and policy frameworks in Uganda criminalizing sexual harassment, studies indicate its widespread occurrence. Minister Amongi noted that some victims choose to remain silent due to financial dependence on their jobs.

The awarded companies were recognized for implementing gender equality policies in recruitment, promoting non-discrimination, offering women leadership positions, establishing work-life balance measures, and providing training opportunities for women. UNDP Resident Representative Ms. Elsie Attafuah emphasized the vital role of Uganda’s private sector in championing gender equality and women’s empowerment.

PSFU Board Chairperson Mr. Humphrey Nzeyi applauded the companies for participating in the Gender Equality Seal initiative, highlighting the program’s growth since its inception in 2016. Over 90 companies from various sectors have enrolled in the program, signifying a commitment to advancing gender equality in the workplace.

Source: Daily Monitor

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