The country's sexual harassment tribunal is falling short of expected case volumes, according to a deputy minister overseeing the mechanism. Fears that continue to prevent victims from pursuing formal complaints alongside insufficient awareness of available channels represent the main obstacles to higher filing numbers.
Many individuals who experience harassment remain reluctant to step forward despite having legal recourse, officials suggest. This hesitation reflects broader concerns about social stigma, retaliation risks, and the often lengthy nature of formal proceedings that discourage individuals from taking action.
Another contributing factor is the limited public knowledge regarding complaint procedures. A significant portion of potential complainants remain unaware that they can lodge cases through digital platforms, which would theoretically streamline access and reduce barriers to participation.
The tribunal's lower-than-anticipated caseload underscores the gap between the existence of formal mechanisms and their actual utilisation by those requiring protection. Outreach efforts and awareness campaigns may be necessary to encourage more individuals to file complaints and access available remedies for workplace misconduct.
