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In Braga, Portugal, sexual harassment is recognized as a severe offence and is addressed under several laws, including the Portuguese Labour Code and the Penal Code. It is defined as unwanted behavior of a sexual nature that affects the dignity of men and women in the workplace. This can include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. The laws in Portugal protect individuals from sexual harassment in many settings, including workplaces, educational institutions, and public spaces.
If you are a victim of sexual harassment, it is critical to have proper legal representation on your side. A lawyer can guide and support you through the process, counsel you on the best course of action based on your unique circumstances, help you gather necessary evidence, and represent you at the court of law. If you are uncertain about whether you are experiencing harassment, a lawyer can also provide clarity about the definition and criteria of sexual harassment under Portuguese law.
Article 29 of the Portuguese Labour Code outlines the prohibition of harassment, including sexual harassment, in the workplace. Employers who do not prevent or punish this conduct risk penalties. Under the Penal Code, sexual harassment is a public crime, meaning the Public Prosecutor's Office can prosecute offenders even without a complaint from the victim. Furthermore, it is important to note that anyone can be a victim or perpetrator of sexual harassment, regardless of their gender or their relationship with the victim.
Unwanted behavior related to sex, which intentionally or seriously affects a person's dignity, is considered sexual harassment. This can include, but is not limited to, undesired physical contact, inappropriate comments or jokes, or suggestive gestures.
You can report incidents of sexual harassment to the police, your workplace's HR department or the Public Prosecutor's Office in Portugal. A lawyer can guide you through this process.
While your privacy will be respected, complete anonymity may not be possible, especially if legal action is pursued against the perpetrator.
The harasser can face various penalties, such as fines, termination from employment, and even imprisonment, depending on the severity of the harassment.
Retaliation is illegal. Inform your lawyer immediately if you face any adverse consequences for reporting harassment, as there are legal protections and solutions available.
You may find helpful resources from organizations such as the Commission for Equality in Labour and Employment (CITE), which works to protect employees' rights and to promote equality in the workplace. The Portuguese Association for Victim Support (APAV) also offers support to victims of sexual harassment.
If you believe you are a victim of sexual harassment, your first step should be to document all incidents in detail. Seek counsel from a lawyer who specializes in sexual harassment cases. They will guide you on the best course of action, including how to officially report the harassment to the relevant authorities and assist you in pursuing a lawsuit if necessary. Never hesitate to protect your rights.
