Hesperian Health Guides
Sexual Harassment
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Sexual harassment is unwanted sexual attention from an employer, manager, or any person with power over you. This includes saying something sexual that makes you uncomfortable, touching in a sexual way, or demanding sex. Whether working for your family in the countryside or in a factory in the city, everyone, especially women, is in danger of sexual harassment and assault.
There are many reasons why it may be hard for you to say “no” to sexual harassment:
- You may be afraid of losing your job, which you need to support yourself and your family.
- You may have been raised to obey and respect the wishes of older men and men in power.
- The harasser may be a relative, and you may be afraid to say “no” or complain, worried that no one will believe you, or he will be treated badly.
More Information
Rape and sexual violenceBut no matter what the situation is, sexual harassment is wrong. It is also against the law in many countries. If you have been sexually harassed, try to find someone to confide in and to give you support. Although sharing your experience with others may not end the harassment, it can help them to avoid being harassed.