MISA TV Celebrates Women’s Month by Campaigning Against Workplace Sexual Harassment
Johannesburg – In celebration of Women’s Month in South Africa, MISA TV is tackling the urgent issue of sexual harassment, which significantly undermines dignity, safety, and equality in the workplace.
In a powerful interview, Nothemba Sonjica, Acting Manager at the Office of the Commission for Gender Equality, highlighted the critical need for organizations to adopt strong, victim-centered policies in line with the Code of Good Practice on Sexual Harassment, alongside regular employee training on appropriate conduct.
Sonjica characterized sexual harassment as any unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature, pointing out the profound impact of power dynamics on victims’ perceptions and responses to such behaviors.
“For many victims, it can be difficult to demonstrate their lack of consent or resistance due to fear and coercive situations,” she stated.
“Both intimidation and coercion are recognized in the Sexual Offences Act, as well as in discussions surrounding sexual harassment.”
“Therefore, when someone reacts in a certain way, it may not truly reflect their consent or suggest that they welcome such behavior.”
This conversation is particularly relevant given the recent high-profile case involving Justice Mbenenge, the Judge President of the Eastern Cape, who is facing allegations of sexual harassment.
This instance sheds light on how entrenched power imbalances can silence victims and underscores the responsibility of employers and institutions to create safe environments for reporting complaints, free from the fear of retaliation.
Sexual harassment does not exist in isolation.
It forms part of a broader spectrum of violence that includes gender-based violence, workplace aggression, and societal abuse.
Allowing harassment to persist normalizes coercion and intimidation, eroding trust and perpetuating cycles of violence.
Eradicating it from the workplace is not only a legal requirement but also a moral imperative.
Martlé Keyter, CEO of Operations at MISA, emphasized this point: “Workplaces must be secure spaces where dignity is maintained.
“Employers cannot afford to be complacent—they must establish clear policies, educate their employees, and address complaints with urgency.”
“MISA is fully committed to supporting victims and will persist in advocating for harassment-free work environments.”
You can view the latest episode of MISA TV here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qhw6xXoCbdk
The post MISA TV Celebrates Women’s Month With A Call To End Sexual Harassment In The Workplace appeared first on The Bulrushes.