Sexual Harassment in the Workplace: An Exploratory Study from Lebanon

Abstract

Sexual harassment is a recurring problem around the globe. Different nations have taken measures to deal with the consequences of such a problem. Continuous development of policies is observed. Nations or companies are dealing with the topic by either reacting or pro-acting to the salient situations. Lebanon is not different than other countries. Sexual harassment occurs in the workplace, but unfortunately there are no public records of the cases. Therefore, this research attempts to close such a gap. This paper explores sexual harassment in the workplace within selected Lebanese organizations. A questionnaire has been developed and circulated to that purpose. The organizations contacted comprised of one hotel, several restaurants and night clubs, and a university. The high response rate (67%) has enabled a comprehensive and reliable information resource to be created, hopefully to enable application in terms of on-the-ground practice and levels of awareness and action in the stated regions. This information is considered particularly timely as it reflects the current position in Lebanon. The expected outcome of this paper is the development of policies and creation of awareness which build on the findings of this research. Findings are also expected to contribute to defining future research work.