Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Sexual harassment refers to unwanted sexual conduct, comments, gestures or requests for sexual favours that affect a person s dignity or create an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment. In Limpio - as elsewhere in Paraguay - sexual harassment is addressed through several legal pathways: criminal law when behaviour is punishable as an offence, labour law when it occurs at work, and civil law when a victim seeks compensation or protective remedies. Local institutions such as the Policía Nacional, the Ministerio Público and municipal offices in Limpio handle reports and cooperate with national ministries that have competence over gender, labour and victim assistance.
You may need a lawyer if sexual harassment affects your safety, employment, studies or mental health, or when you want to pursue legal remedies. Common situations include workplace harassment by supervisors or colleagues, harassment by public officials or service providers, sexual coercion that may rise to criminal assault, repeated online harassment, retaliation after reporting, or complex cases involving multiple incidents and witnesses. A lawyer can explain your legal options, help preserve evidence, prepare and present complaints to employers, labour authorities or the Ministerio Público, and represent you in civil or criminal proceedings. Lawyers also advise on protective measures, negotiate settlements, and coordinate with health or social services.
Paraguay s legal framework combines constitutional protections, the Penal Code, labour regulations and specialised measures against gender-based violence. Criminal law may apply when harassment involves sexual coercion, sexual abuse or other offences. Labour law addresses employer obligations to provide a safe workplace and to investigate and sanction harassment, with administrative remedies that can include compensation, reinstatement or disciplinary measures. There are also laws and policies aimed at preventing violence against women and protecting victims, which establish procedures for urgent protective measures and victim assistance. In practice, complaints can be filed before the employer, before the Ministerio Público for criminal investigation, or before labour authorities such as the Ministerio de Trabajo, Empleo y Seguridad Social. Local police units - including specialised women's units where available - provide first response and can facilitate medical exams and referrals.
Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual remarks, sexualised gestures, inappropriate touching, repeated invitations or propositions, showing sexual images without consent, quid‑pro‑quo demands where sexual conduct is linked to job or academic benefits, and creating a hostile work or study environment through sexual conduct. Whether conduct is illegal depends on the context, severity and applicable law.
It can be both. Some harassment may amount to criminal offences under the Penal Code when it involves coercion, sexual abuse or other unlawful sexual acts. Other harassment may be addressed through labour or administrative procedures when it occurs in the workplace. Victims can pursue criminal charges, labour claims or both, depending on the facts.
You can report to the Policía Nacional - including specialised units for gender violence - to the Ministerio Público to start a criminal investigation, and to your employer or union to trigger internal or labour procedures. You may also file a complaint with the Ministerio de Trabajo for workplace matters. For immediate safety concerns, contact the police right away and seek medical attention if needed.
Keep messages, emails, social media posts, photos, recordings if legally made, dates and times of incidents, names of witnesses, workplace records, performance reviews and any medical or psychological reports. Write a clear timeline of events as soon as possible. Preserve electronic evidence and avoid deleting messages that could be relevant.
Victims may request protective measures such as orders to keep distance, workplace reassignments, temporary leave, suspension of the alleged harasser, or police protection in serious cases. Employers should take steps to prevent retaliation. A lawyer can help request urgent measures through the Ministerio Público or civil courts, depending on the situation.
Time limits depend on the type of claim. Criminal offences, civil actions and labour claims each have their own limitation periods. Some serious sexual offences may have longer or special rules. Because limitation periods vary, consult a lawyer quickly to avoid losing the right to bring a claim.
No employer should lawfully dismiss or retaliate against a person for reporting harassment. Labour law protections prohibit retaliatory actions, and victims can seek reinstatement, compensation or other remedies if they suffer unlawful dismissal. A lawyer can advise on immediate steps and possible labour claims.
Authorities and institutions generally try to protect victims privacy, but confidentiality is not absolute. Criminal investigations and employer procedures may require sharing information with relevant parties. You can request confidentiality and your lawyer can raise privacy concerns and ask for restricted access to sensitive records when appropriate.
Potential remedies include criminal prosecution of the alleged harasser, civil damages for emotional harm and economic loss, labour remedies such as compensation or reinstatement, administrative sanctions for employers that fail to act, and protective measures to ensure safety. The available remedies depend on the facts, the legal route taken and the evidence available.
Fees vary. Many lawyers offer an initial consultation at low or no cost. Some cases may be handled on contingency or subject to negotiated fees. Public legal aid may be available through the Defensoría Pública or other state programs for eligible people, and NGOs sometimes offer legal assistance or referrals. Ask about fees and funding options at the first meeting with a lawyer.
Relevant Paraguayan institutions and resources include the Ministerio Público (Public Prosecutor s Office) which receives criminal complaints, the Policía Nacional and specialised women s units that provide first response, the Ministerio de Trabajo, Empleo y Seguridad Social for workplace claims, and the Ministerio de la Mujer for gender-based violence prevention and victim assistance. The Municipalidad de Limpio can provide information about local social services and municipal programs. The Defensoría Pública or public legal aid services may help people with limited resources. Local health centres and hospitals can perform medical exams and document injuries. Non-governmental organisations and community groups that support survivors can also provide counselling, shelter referrals and legal guidance. Seek out organisations in Limpio and the Central Department for in-person support.
If you have experienced sexual harassment in Limpio, prioritise your safety: remove yourself from immediate danger and contact the police if you are at risk. Preserve evidence by saving messages, noting dates and gathering witness names. Seek medical and psychological care if needed and request documentation. Decide whether you want to pursue an internal workplace complaint, a criminal report to the Ministerio Público, a labour claim with the Ministerio de Trabajo, or a civil claim for damages. Contact a lawyer experienced in sexual harassment, labour and criminal matters to evaluate your options and assist with filings and protective measures. If cost is a concern, ask about public legal aid, NGOs or pro bono assistance. Keep records of every step you take, and consider informing a trusted friend or family member so you have support during the process.
