ShodhPatra: International Journal of Science and Humanities

SDG 5 and Gender Equality at the Workplace: Addressing Sexual Harassment of Men in Contemporary Legal and Governance Frameworks

Abstract Sexual harassment at the workplace is widely recognized as a violation of human dignity and a barrier to gender equality, yet discussions and policies often focus primarily on women as victims. This limited perspective overlooks the reality that men also experience sexual harassment in professional environments. Sexual harassment of men may take various forms, including unwelcome verbal remarks, inappropriate physical contact, sexually explicit messages, coercion, and the creation of a hostile or humiliating work atmosphere. Due to deep-rooted gender stereotypes, social stigma, and fear of disbelief or ridicule, male victims frequently underreport such incidents, leading to their continued invisibility. Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5) aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. While the goal emphasizes women’s empowerment due to historical and structural disadvantages, its broader mandate is the elimination of all forms of gender-based discrimination and violence. Addressing sexual harassment of men is therefore consistent with the fundamental spirit of SDG 5, which promotes equality, dignity, and safe environments for all genders. Gender equality cannot be fully realized if workplace protections and legal frameworks exclude or marginalize male victims. This not only undermines the principles of equality before law but also weakens efforts to build inclusive and respectful workplaces. This abstract argues that a holistic and inclusive approach to SDG 5 requires recognition of men as potential victims of workplace sexual harassment. Promoting awareness, challenging harmful gender norms, and implementing gender-neutral policies are essential steps toward achieving true gender equality. Ensuring safe, dignified, and equitable workplaces for all individuals are central to the realization of SDG 5 and sustainable development as a whole.