The Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 2022, initially conceived to protect women, is now gaining recognition for the inclusion of men as potential victims, according to the All Women’s Action Society (Awam). Despite the prevalent focus on women in discussions about sexual harassment, Awam's program officer, Dhivyasri, emphasizes that men are susceptible to unwanted advances, inappropriate behavior, and coercion, warranting acknowledgment and attention.
The Women, Family, and Community Development Minister, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, noted an increase in reports by men regarding sexual harassment. Out of 762 cases reported between July 6 and Oct 2 of the previous year, 187 were filed by men. While women still constitute a majority of the reported cases, the rising number of reports from men highlights the growing issue of sexual harassment affecting both genders.
Dhivyasri argues that the statistics reveal the severity of the problem for both men and women, necessitating immediate attention and a collective commitment to addressing its harmful effects. Over the years, the number of reports from men has risen, indicating a shared concern about sexual harassment's impact on individuals of all genders.
The traditional gender norms that perceive men as strong and resilient contribute to the underreporting of sexual harassment cases faced by men. Dhivyasri emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where all victims feel safe and supported when coming forward, without fear of being judged or stigmatized.
While legal protections exist, Dhivyasri acknowledges challenges like under-reporting, societal perceptions, and enforcement issues. Internal inhibitions, victim blaming, and a lack of awareness contribute to the persistence of harassment, particularly in the workplace. Collaborating with organizations to establish and reinforce policies addressing sexual harassment is crucial to combating the issue effectively.
Dhivyasri calls for increased awareness, societal change, and a streamlined legal process to address challenges, including those related to reporting online harassment. She stresses the need for robust reporting processes to ensure the safety of victims and their access to justice.
In the ongoing discourse on sexual harassment involving men, Dhivyasri highlights the significant strides made by NGOs promoting gender equality. Through talks and workshops, Awam has addressed various aspects of sexual harassment, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to combat gender-based violence comprehensively.
Dhivyasri encourages individuals and communities to actively participate in these efforts to create a society where everyone feels safe, respected, and free from gender-based violence. Victims of sexual harassment are urged to report incidents through Awam’s Telenita helpline at 016-237 4221 to access counseling and legal information.
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