Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
In Kisii, Kenya, like in other parts of the country, the subject of sexual harassment is governed by the Sexual Offences Act of 2006, the Employment Act of 2007, and the Constitution of Kenya, 2010. These regulations address various facets of sexual harassment in different contexts, such as in the workplace, in educational institutions, or in general public spaces. They prohibit any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.
Despite the protective laws in place, sexual harassment often goes unreported due to fear, stigma, or lack of understanding about what constitutes harassment. You may need a lawyer if you're a victim and need to report an incident of sexual harassment, file a civil claim for damages, or need help navigating through the legal system. Lawyers can also provide counsel for individuals accused of sexual harassment, ensuring their rights are protected throughout the judicial process.
The Sexual Offences Act criminalizes acts such as rape, attempted rape, and indecent acts, including sexual harassment. The Employment Act requires employers to issue policy statements prohibiting sexual harassment in the workplace and provides for punitive measures against culprits including potential employment termination. The Constitution assures everyone the right to freedom from violence, psychological or bodily harm, whether in private or public spaces. Each of these laws provides mechanisms for making complaints, investigations, and eventual prosecution of perpetrators.
Any victim of sexual harassment should promptly report the incident to the police. You also have the right to seek legal representation to guide you through the process and possibly file for damages.
Yes, the laws are gender-neutral and protect everyone, regardless of their sex, from sexual harassment.
Yes, sexual harassment can occur in various settings including schools, places of worship, online platforms, and public transport among others.
Employers are required by the Employment Act to make explicit policies against sexual harassment and mechanisms for anonymous reporting. They should also ensure regular training and awareness among staff.
Yes, depending on the circumstances, an organization can be held accountable for its employee's acts of sexual harassment, especially if they were aware and did nothing to stop it.
Several organizations provide support and resources in cases of sexual harassment. These include the National Gender and Equality Commission, FIDA Kenya, and the Kenya Legal & Ethical Issues Network on HIV and AIDS (KELIN). The Coalition on Violence Against Women (COVAW) also provides aid to gender-based violence victims.
For anyone seeking assistance in a sexual harassment case, it is advisable to contact and consult with a sexual harassment lawyer as soon as possible. Make sure to document any incidents of harassment as this will aid your case. If the harassment occurs in a workplace or school setting, you may also need to report to your supervisor, HR department, or relevant authorities in the institution following the set protocols and procedures.
