Public consultations on the new ‘Protection from Harassment Bill 2024’ have started, with a focus on eradicating gender based violence.
The Ministry of Human Services is leading the public consultations, and citizens are being offered the opportunity to engage directly with Government officials to voice their views on the draft legislation.
According to the Department of Public Information, the proposed Bill seeks to address harassment in various settings, particularly in both public and private workplaces, with a particular focus on protecting vulnerable groups and preventing sexual harassment and stalking.
According to the draft, harassment covers any conduct that causes harm, induces fear, or otherwise disturbs the peace of individuals through actions including following surveillance, and unwanted communication.
It also includes direct and indirect forms of harassment while addressing instances where third parties, such as family or friends, might be affected.
In addition, the bill highlights sexual harassment in private and public domains and mandates that employers make every reasonable effort to prevent harassment in workplaces, schools, institutions, and similar environments.
To uphold confidentiality, the Bill mandates that all institutions create a secure register for recording complaints, and only authorized individuals can access this information.
The public consultation exercise will be taken cross the country and will conclude in early December.
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