
Sexual harassment in the workplace is a pervasive issue in many countries, and Malta is no exception. According to local reports and polls conducted by expert NGOs in the sector, one out of three cases of sexual abuse in the workplace is not reported to the police for various reasons. This includes victims who may not know how to report the abuse or fear retaliation from their abusers.
Further, reports indicate that three out of four female workers in Malta are victims of sexual abuse in the workplace. These alarming statistics demonstrate the urgent need for action to protect workers and ensure a safe and respectful workplace for all.
To address this issue, the Nationalist Party recently presented a Bill in Parliament aimed at amending the Law and continuing its work of zero tolerance for sexual abuse in the workplace. The proposed amendment would introduce, for the first time in the country, the obligation for medium and large enterprises with more than 49 workers to have a policy against sexual harassment in the workplace.
This legal amendment is expected to have a direct impact on around 44,000 workers in Malta and Gozo and create a positive influence on every workplace. With this amendment, companies will have to implement policies and procedures to address and prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. This will not only protect workers but also create a culture of respect and safety in the workplace.
The proposed amendment is a step in the right direction towards tackling the pervasive issue of sexual harassment in the workplace in Malta. It is essential to create an environment where workers feel safe and empowered to report any abuse they may face. The Nationalist Party’s initiative demonstrates a commitment to ensuring a safe and respectful workplace for all workers in Malta.
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