Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women in Higher Education Institutions: A Comprehensive Analysis

Abstract

Sexual harassment in the workplace, including higher education institutions, presents significant challenges, impacting individuals' well-being and institutional integrity. Sexual harassment is an epidemic throughout global higher education systems and impact individuals, groups and entire organizations in profound ways. Precarious working conditions, hierarchical organizations, a normalization of gender-based violence, toxic academic masculinities, a culture of silence and a lack of active leadership are all key features enabling sexual harassment. The aim of this study is to review scientific knowledge on sexual harassment in higher education. A thematic focus is on (a) knowledge derived from top-ranked peer-reviewed articles in the research field, (b) the prevalence of sexual harassment among students and staff, (c) reported consequences of sexual harassment, (d) examples of primary, secondary and tertiary preventive measures, and (e) core challenges to research on sexual harassment in higher education. Higher education settings, with their unique dynamics involving students, faculty, and staff, require tailored approaches to prevent and address such issues.