Introduction
Moral or sexual harassment in the workplace is a reality that undermines employees’ health and worsens the social climate. Stress, loss of motivation, sick leave, resignations. ..: the consequences are serious not only for the victims, but also for the company.
The law requires all employers to prevent, detect and take action against harassment. But over and above these legal obligations, taking concrete action to combat harassment enhances well-being in the workplace and team cohesion. Here are the levers to activate to effectively combat harassment in the workplace. Article written with Cuidam.
1. Raising awareness and training all employees
The first step in preventing harassment is to train and raise awareness among all company players.
Actions to be implemented :
- Train managers to detect and react to high-risk situations
- Organize workshops or webinars on moral and sexual harassment
- Display and disseminate legal texts and internal procedures
- Set up a harassment referent, particularly in the case of work-study students or interns.
The more employees are informed, the more they dare to alert and react to abnormal situations.
2. Establish clear reporting and handling procedures
An effective anti-harassment policy depends on clear procedures and protection for victims.
|
Action |
Objective |
Impact |
|
Create a confidential reporting channel |
Encourage people to speak out without fear |
Detect situations more quickly |
|
Appoint an external or internal referent |
Provide a neutral, trained listening ear |
Guarantee confidentiality and protection |
|
Formalize an internal investigation procedure |
Clarify processing stages and deadlines |
Avoid impunity and reassure teams |
All employees must know who to turn to and how to act if they are victims or witnesses.
3. Promote a corporate culture based on respect
Over and above its legal obligations, the company must enshrine respect and benevolence in its values.
Examples of actions :
- Incorporate respect for others into internal regulations
- Promote diversity and inclusion
- Promote good managerial practices: listening, constructive feedback, recognition, etc.
- Create moments of exchange and cohesion to strengthen team bonds
The stronger the corporate culture is based on these values, the faster toxic behavior is isolated and denounced.
4. Monitor, evaluate and adjust actions taken
Combating harassment is not a one-shot operation. It requires regular monitoring and adjustments based on the reality on the ground.
Follow-up actions :
- Include questions on social climate in internal surveys.
- Produce an annual review of reports and actions taken.
- Adapt training programs in line with feedback and identified needs.
- Work with social partners and the Works Council on this subject.
Transparency and evaluation of actions reinforce the credibility of the approach with employees.
Conclusion
Combating harassment in the workplace is much more than meeting a legal obligation: it’s about protecting employees and building a healthy, respectful working environment. Prevention, training and clear procedures are the cornerstones of an effective policy.
Every company has the power to take action and anchor benevolence in its culture. Well-being at work and collective performance depend directly on it.
