Working life has drastically changed, and it has gotten easier to call out inappropriate behaviours when they arise. One reason for this may be that the #meetoo campaign has made the topic less taboo. However, that is not enough. Sexual harassment still takes place in working life today. Moreover, those who are being harassed feel that their employer does not take actions, even if the law requires to do so.
Yle published on 6.8.2024 an article on sexual harassment in the construction industry. According to the survey quoted in the article, 44 % of the female members of the Construction Trade Union – Rakennusliitto - said they had experienced sexual harassment at some point during their career. In addition, female respondents reported that their physical integrity was threatened.
The construction industry is not the only sector where harassment occurs. In 2023, with 16 other Akava unions, Suomen Ekonomit compiled materials on sexual harassment and sexism in the workplace (Finnish only). According to this study, women experience sexual harassment more often than men. 12% of female respondents say they have experienced sexual harassment face-to-face. However, sexual harassment is not gender-specific, as four per cent of men responded having experienced face-to-face harassment.
Harassment can take various forms and has diverse consequences for those who have experienced it
According to those who have experienced harassment, harassment has mainly been verbal, but some have also been victims of physical harassment. In general, the harasser has been a member of their own work community (67 %), but 46 % of those who have experienced harassment also report that the harasser has been a customer or a representative person or partner.
In addition to creating a sense of insecurity in the workplace, harassment can also have other serious consequences. Respondents tell amongst other things to suffer from health problems or insomnia. In addition, some feel that they have challenges to advance in their careers. Some have also resigned from their position because of the harassment.
Some employers neglect their obligation to take actions in cases of harassment
Many workplaces have taken the fight against sexual harassment seriously. They have appointed a harassment contact person and instructions for sexual harassment. However, many people say that their employer has done nothing about it. In the survey by 17 Akava unions, 58% of those who have observed sexual harassment (14% of respondents) say that the employer has done nothing to address the harassment.
This is illegal. The occupational safety law – työturvallisuuslaki – states that the employer must take measures to eliminate harassment and other inappropriate treatment that harms or jeopardises health when the employer becomes aware of the situation. If the employer is passive and does not take actions, they may be considered guilty of discrimination. Passivity is therefore not only a minor neglect of obligations but acting against Finnish law.
If you experience harassment and your employer or employer’s representative does not take action to stop it, you can contact, for example, the occupational safety and health representative of your workplace or your trade union to help resolve the situation.
Inappropriate behaviour is a part of history, including in the workplace. No one should be labeled as difficult or unpleasant when they voice issues. Instead, harassment and other inappropriate behaviours must be addressed more firmly: everyone has a right to a safe workplace.