Military Launches Drive to Root Out Sexual Harassment Amidst Rising Concerns

Strategic Insights -

A startling survey reveals that more than two-thirds of servicewomen in the British military have experienced "sexualised behavior" in the past 12 months, with over 6,000 women subjected to harassing behavior. The survey, the largest of its kind conducted by a British employer, highlights the alarming prevalence of sexual harassment in the military. The behavior includes unwelcome comments, explicit material, unwanted touching, and sexual assaults. Despite these disturbing findings, many women who experienced harassment failed to take official action due to a lack of confidence in complaints procedures.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 6,000 servicewomen experienced sexual harassment in the past year, with 52% of all respondents reporting some form of harassment.
  • The most common forms of harassment included unwelcome comments (35%), sending explicit material (22%), and unwanted touching (17%).
  • Only 72 women out of 1,400 who claimed to have suffered a "particularly upsetting experience" took official action, citing a lack of confidence in complaints procedures.
  • 49% of those subjected to harassment said it lasted for more than two months, and 23% said it lasted for more than six months.
  • High-quality support, effective sanctions, and protection from harassment or victimisation are lacking in the military's current complaints procedures.
  • The Equal Opportunities Commission has agreed to monitor the military's progress in addressing these issues until 2008, when it will decide whether further action is needed.

Statistics:

  • 52% of servicewomen (9,384 out of 18,000) responded to the survey.
  • 6,000+ servicewomen experienced sexual harassment in the past year.
  • 35% of respondents reported experiencing unwelcome comments.
  • 22% reported receiving explicit material.
  • 17% reported experiencing unwanted touching.
  • Only 72 women out of 1,400 claimed to have suffered a "particularly upsetting experience" and took official action.
  • 49% of those subjected to harassment said it lasted for more than two months.

Sources:

  • "The Guardian", "Dr. Michael Stronge", a senior lecturer in psychology.
  • "The Telegraph", "Jenny Watson, Chair of the Equal Opportunities Commission".
  • "The Times", "Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup, Chief of the Defence Staff".