1. Purpose:
This policy outlines our commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all individuals involved in our organization. We firmly condemn any form of harassment, including but not limited to commercial, sexual, or any other act that deprives individuals of their human rights. This policy is applicable to all employees, contractors, vendors, clients, visitors, and any other individuals associated with our organization.
2. Definition of Harassment:
Harassment is defined as any unwelcome conduct, whether verbal, physical, or visual, that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. This includes but is not limited to:
a. Sexual harassment: Unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favours, and other verbal, non-verbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
b. Commercial harassment: Coercive or abusive behaviour aimed at financial gain, including exploitation, fraud, or manipulation.
c. Any other form of harassment: Any behaviour that demeans, humiliates, or discriminates against individuals based on their race, ethnicity, gender, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.
3. Prohibited Conduct:
The following behaviours are strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated within our organization:
a. Making offensive comments, jokes, or gestures related to an individual’s gender, race, religion, or any other protected characteristic.
b. Engaging in unwanted physical contact or advances.
c. Using threats, coercion, or intimidation to manipulate or exploit individuals.
d. Discriminating against individuals in hiring, promotion, compensation, or any other aspect of employment or engagement based on protected characteristics.
e. Retaliating against individuals who report harassment or participate in investigations related to harassment complaints.
4. Reporting Procedure:
Any individual who experiences or witnesses’ harassment or deprivation of human rights within our organization is encouraged to report the incident immediately. Reports can be made to a supervisor, human resources department, or any designated individual responsible for handling such complaints. Reports can be made verbally or in writing, and confidentiality will be maintained to the extent possible during the investigation process.
5. Investigation and Corrective Action:
All reports of harassment will be promptly and thoroughly investigated. Investigations will be conducted in a fair, impartial, and confidential manner. If the investigation confirms that harassment has occurred, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken, up to and including termination of employment or contract. Additionally, remedial actions will be implemented to prevent recurrence of harassment and to support affected individuals.
6. Non-Retaliation:
Retaliation against individuals who report harassment or participate in investigations is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action. Any individual found to have engaged in retaliation will be subject to appropriate consequences, regardless of their position within the organization.
7. Training and Awareness:
Regular training sessions and awareness programs will be conducted to educate employees, contractors, and other relevant parties about this policy, the types of behaviour that constitute harassment, and the procedures for reporting and addressing harassment complaints.
8. Compliance:
Compliance with this policy is mandatory for all individuals associated with our organization. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract.
9. Review and Update:
This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Updates and revisions will be made as necessary to address emerging issues and improve the overall effectiveness of the policy.
We are committed to fostering a culture of respect, dignity, and equality within our organization. By adhering to this policy and working together, we can create a safe and inclusive environment where all individuals can thrive and contribute to our collective success.
