No one should feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or silenced at work. Yet, for many women, the workplace can still be a space where power imbalances and inappropriate behaviour go unchecked. Whether it’s suggestive comments, unwanted messages, physical advances, or more subtle forms of coercion, sexual harassment is never “just part of the job.” It violates your dignity, and you don’t have to tolerate it.
What Counts as Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment comes in many forms, including:
- Unwelcome sexual comments, jokes, or gestures
- Inappropriate touching or invading personal space
- Repeated requests for dates or contact after being told “no”
- Sharing sexual content or images
- Sextortion or threats related to sexual acts
- Retaliation for rejecting advances
These behaviours create a hostile or intimidating work environment, and under Maltese law, they are unlawful.
You Are Not Alone: Support in Malta
In Malta, support services exist to empower survivors without forcing them into a legal process they may not be ready for.
Victim Support Malta’s Care for Victims of Sexual Assault (CVSA) service provides specialised, trauma-informed support to anyone aged 13+ who has experienced sexual assault, harassment, sextortion, or rape. Services include:
- Free therapeutic support for individuals and families
- Psychiatric sessions
- Legal consultation and representation
Importantly, you don’t need to file a police report to access these services.
📞 Call: 2122 8333
📧 Email: [email protected]
📝 Or fill in a referral form at: victimsupport.org.mt
What You Can Do If You’re Being Harassed
You have options. Here’s how to take back control:
1. Document Everything
Keep records of what happened, when, where, and who was involved. Save messages, emails, or screenshots if applicable.
2. Speak Up (If Safe to Do So)
If you feel safe, let the person know their behaviour is unwelcome. Sometimes, this is enough to stop it, but you are never obligated to confront someone if you feel unsafe.
3. Report Internally
Check if your workplace has a sexual harassment policy or a designated HR officer. Larger companies in Malta are legally required to have one in place.
4. Get Support
Whether it’s a trusted colleague, a therapist, or a service like CVSA, you deserve to be supported. You don’t have to go through this alone.
5. Know Your Rights
Under Maltese law, employers must take reasonable steps to prevent harassment and address complaints seriously. If they don’t, they could be held accountable too.
If You’re an Employer or Colleague
Creating safe workplaces is everyone’s responsibility. Employers should:
- Provide a clear anti-harassment policy
- Offer training and awareness sessions
- Respond quickly and fairly to complaints
Colleagues can also support by:
- Believing and standing by victims
- Reporting what they witness
- Challenging harmful “jokes” or attitudes
Let’s Change the Culture Together
Ending sexual harassment means more than addressing bad behaviour; it calls for a cultural shift. One where mutual respect, dignity, and consent are the norm. One where every woman, especially those just entering the workforce, knows her voice matters and her safety is non-negotiable.
Let’s rewrite the story, one where voices are heard, confidence replaces fear, and no one has to face it alone.
Rebecca Galea is the marketing and web design expert for the Women for Women Foundation. She’s a single mum of two and has always been passionate about empowering and helping women in any way she can.
