Female employees at UASA’s head office in Roodepoort received training on how to address and deal with gender-based violence at work, including how they can protect themselves from physical or mental attacks from colleagues or clients.

While today’s training was aimed at our female staff, UASA is aware that man are also victims of gender based violence, albeit to a lesser extent. The training they received today will not only help them in their work life but their personal lives as well.

UASA believes no one should have to go to work in fear of experiencing violence and harassment, and if such behaviour sticks out its ugly head, employees should know how to handle the scourge.

This month the International Labour Organization (ILO) is completing negotiations on a new law to prohibit, prevent and remedy violence and harassment in the workplace. The ILO is the United Nations agency responsible for setting global legal standards for working conditions. They are currently celebrating their 100th anniversary in Geneva Switzerland, President Ramaphosa is leading the South African delegation supported by representatives from the new Ministry of Labour and Employment, and organised labour including FEDUSA.

While there are still some differences to be settled on the final content of the new law, it is broadly supported by trade unions, governments and some employers.

If adopted, the new international law will place clear responsibilities on employers and governments to tackle the scourge of violence and harassment at work. Workers will also bear the responsibility of complying with any policies, procedures or other steps taken by their employers to prevent such behaviour in the workplace.

With more than 800 million women (and men) around the world having experienced some form of violence and harassment, ranging from physical assault, verbal abuse, bullying and intimidation, our government and employers must start doing their part to help make this law a reality.

 

Issued by UASA