Ethiopia is grappling with significant challenges related to workplace sexual harassment, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive legal frameworks to protect workers, particularly women, from gender-based violence in the labor market. A recent report “Mapping Legal Protections Against Workplace Sexual harassment in Africa” by the World Bank underscores the pervasive nature of sexual harassment across various sectors, including employment, education, and public spaces, emphasizing that many employees remain vulnerable due to inadequate legal protections.
The report reveals that while Ethiopia has made strides in addressing gender equality, gaps remain in the legal prohibitions against sexual harassment in the workplace. This issue is compounded by a lack of enforcement mechanisms and societal attitudes that often tolerate such behavior. As of 2024, nearly half of African countries have some form of law prohibiting sexual harassment; however, Ethiopia’s legal framework still requires significant improvement to effectively address this pervasive issue.
Experts note that the absence of robust laws not only diminishes women’s economic opportunities but also perpetuates a culture of impunity for perpetrators. The International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 190 on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work offers a roadmap for reforming national laws and policies. However, Ethiopia has yet to ratify this critical treaty, which aims to provide comprehensive protections against workplace harassment.
In Ethiopia’s hospitality sector, for example, women have reported facing numerous challenges, including revealing dress codes that contribute to their objectification and a lack of financial security that leaves them vulnerable to exploitation. These conditions highlight the intersection of poverty and workplace harassment, where marginalized individuals often endure harassment as a means of survival.
The Ethiopian government has been urged to take decisive action by ratifying international conventions and implementing effective legislation that not only prohibits sexual harassment but also provides clear pathways for victims to seek justice. Advocacy groups emphasize that creating a safe working environment is essential for fostering economic growth and ensuring gender equality.
As Ethiopia continues its journey towards development and modernization, addressing workplace sexual harassment must become a priority. By strengthening legal frameworks and promoting a culture of respect and equality in the workplace, Ethiopia can take significant steps toward protecting its workforce and enhancing women’s participation in the economy.
