A study published in March 2015 by the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency shows what the reality looks like: according to the study, half of those surveyed had experienced some form of sexual harassment themselves, and only 19 percent of those surveyed knew that their employers were required to take measures to protect them.

But despite the law and company regulations, there is still a great deal of uncertainty when it comes to dealing with cases of sexual harassment. This starts with assessing what constitutes sexual harassment in the first place and does not end with labor law measures. Many victims are afraid to complain, and managers and HR managers are reluctant to actually prevent or stop harassment of employees. However, hearing nothing, seeing nothing, and saying nothing are not strategies for personnel management.

Information event "Sexual harassment in the workplace?
We're taking action!"
To coincide with the signing of the service agreement for the state capital of Mainz, the 2015 focus topic of the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency, and the Mainz Days for Safety and Prevention, the Women's Office and the Health Promotion Office of the state capital of Mainz hosted an information event. The event focused in particular on the role and options available to supervisors and HR managers to effectively support those affected and to draw clear boundaries with those who harass others.