Gender-Based Violence: 4 in 10 Women Face Sexist Remarks at Work

Business Mauritius will launch a toolkit this month to help prevent gender-based violence in workplaces. A recent survey shows that 60% of employees believe such incidents are not reported enough. Additionally, 42% of women say they have faced sexist comments or behaviors at their jobs.

The current situation in companies highlights these issues. Many employees, 60%, feel that incidents of gender-based violence are underreported.

The main reasons include lack of knowledge about how to report incidents, fear of retaliation, and concerns about losing their jobs.

Women are more affected, with 42% reporting experiencing sexist remarks or behaviors, compared to 31% of men.

Business Mauritius’s New Initiative

In partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Business Mauritius will launch a national toolkit on May 30 at the House of Digital Art in Port Louis.

This toolkit aims to help companies prevent and address gender-based violence at work.

It includes policies and strategies to create safer, fairer, and more ethical work environments.

Dhiruj Ramluggun, Head of Social Capital at Business Mauritius, said:

“Too often, gender-based violence is ignored, misunderstood, or normalized. This toolkit shows the private sector’s commitment to building a more just, inclusive, and productive society.”

The Importance of the Initiative

This project aligns with International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 190, which addresses violence and harassment in the workplace.

It was tested in a pilot phase with three companies—Défi Média Group, IBL, and Preskil Island Resort—and developed solutions that meet the needs of both victims and those responsible for addressing issues.

Focused on prevention, leadership responsibility, and cultural change, the initiative aims to go beyond mere compliance with regulations.

This is encouraging companies to actively implement measures to eliminate gender-based violence at work and foster respectful and safe environments for all employees.

Source: Defi Media