In light of recent reports the organization has received, the Women and Gender Equality Commission has launched an anti-sexual harassment campaign. Chairperson of constitutional body, Indra Chandrapal, on Wednesday announced that the campaign was conceputalised after increasing reports were received, mainly from women, who noted experiences of unwanted advances from their co-workers.
Commissioners holding up draft posters with anti-sexual harassment slogans
Chandrapal disclosed that many victims are often afraid to come forward. It was explained that suggestion boxes will be placed at a number of strategic points including the National Library, the University of Guyana, the Guyana Post Office Corporation, Giftland Mall and the Georgetown Public Hospital, where persons can note the details of their complaints.
“We know that sexual harassment at the place of work is happening. We have had reports of these matters; unfortunately when you try to get to the bottom of the issue, those persons who would have come forward are always backing out because they fear intimidation from their employer,” Chandrapal stressed.
It was explained that these boxes will be opened every two weeks, whereby a committee will assess the contents of the issues raised after which an investigative officer will follow through with the requisite actions.
“[This will give] those persons who are victims of sexual harassment an opportunity to speak out or represent their issue without fear of intimidation,” the Commission’s Chairperson stressed.
She added that these suggestion boxes will be extended to all 10 administrative regions of Guyana
Meanwhile, Commissioner Vanda Razdik informed that the body recently hosted seminars and is currently looking at legislation to bring improvement to gender development. The Commission stated that it intends to distribute the posters in offices and the body added that associated workshops are planned.
The Women and Gender Equality Commission has a vision to encourage an environment where the rights of women are recognised as human rights. The Commission also seeks to “promote issues related to the enhancement of the status of women, girls and gender issues,” as enshrined in Article 29:1 of Guyana’s Constitution. Additionally, the body has a mandate to recommend and promote the implementation of legislation and to formulate policies and measures to “enhance and protect the status of women”.
