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Sexual harassment at work within Belgian Defence: a prevalence study
Kaatje Buyse1,2, K Goorts3,4, D Peeters1
1Health and Wellbeing, Belgian Defence, Brussels, Belgium.
BMJ Military Health
|August 21, 2021
Summary
Sexual harassment (SH) is prevalent among female soldiers in the Belgian Armed Forces, impacting their mental well-being and professional performance. Low reporting rates are linked to organizational barriers and psychosocial insecurity.
Area of Science:
- Military Health
- Occupational Psychology
- Gender Studies
Background:
- Sexual harassment (SH) negatively affects employee health, well-being, and productivity.
- The Belgian Armed Forces lacked data on SH prevalence and impact.
- This study aimed to quantify SH within the Belgian Defence forces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of sexual harassment (SH) in the Belgian Armed Forces.
- To investigate the impact of SH on mental well-being and professional performance.
- To identify barriers to reporting SH among female military personnel.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative analysis of SH prevalence and mental well-being in 399 female soldiers.
- Qualitative analysis of barriers to reporting and impact of SH in a subsample of 8 female soldiers.
- Investigation of demographic correlations with SH and well-being.
Main Results:
- High prevalence of non-physical SH (64.4% career, 36.1% past year) and physical SH (43.4% career, 16.1% past year).
- Rape prevalence reported at 9% career and 1.4% past year.
- One in three female soldiers experienced reduced mental well-being, significantly linked to SH; reporting barriers include misunderstanding and insecurity.
Conclusions:
- Significant prevalence of SH impacts female military personnel's performance and mental health.
- Organizational changes are needed to encourage reporting of SH incidents.
- Addressing SH is crucial for improving the well-being and effectiveness of female soldiers.
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