AN ASSESMENT OF THE PREVALENCE AND FACTORS FOR WOMEN’S SEXUAL HARASSMENT AT THE WORK PLACE AND ITS IMPACTS ON THE VICTMS: IN THE CASE OF FDRE MINISTRY OF FINANCE ADDIS ABABA

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and factors for Women’s Sexual Harassment at the work place and its impacts on the victims: in the case of FDRE Ministry of Finance. A descriptive and explanatory (mixed) design was employed where both qualitative and quantitative approaches were used in the study a sample of 247 employee respondents were taken for the study using random sampling techniques. In the process of answering the basic questions, a questionnaire capturing various issues including demographic profiles, factors that causes sexual harassment, the prevalence of sexual harassment and the effects of sexual harassment were addressed using Key informant interviews, in-depth-interview and questionnaire .The findings revealed there is sexual harassment but when compared to other workplaces it shows a relatively a lower rate which include attempt to rape, body contact for gratification, touching/pointing sexually sensitive parts, often saw supervisors sexually harass, sexually sensitive assignments by supervisors or coworker, habit to attend sex provoking activity, unconditional gifts in demanding sex, clothing of women, family upbringing, educational status, culture of a society, socialization, drug, alcohol and chat are the cause for sexual harassment. Effects of sexual harassment on the victim it has economic, social and psychological impacts. Organizations should form/strengthen guiding and counseling departments to guide employees in dealing with sexuality issues. They should implement the already existing policies on sexual protection and gender policy on the ground.