Amendments have been proposed to strengthen the prevention of sexual harassment and abuse in the workplace.
The bill was submitted by Parliamentarian for Kelaa Constituency Abdulla Shareef on behalf of the government, seeking to enhance the Prevention of Sexual Harassment and Harassment Act.
The proposed changes outline clearer responsibilities for employers and the Sexual Harassment Prevention Committees established under the Act, with the aim of reinforcing safeguards against harassment in the workplace.
The amendment also seeks to strengthen the rules and procedures followed by these committees when handling complaints, with a focus on protecting the rights of victims. In addition, it expands the scope of employers’ authority to monitor implementation of the law and address challenges faced in enforcing it.
Under the proposed changes, acts of harassment would not be limited to the workplace or official working hours, but could also include incidents connected to employment more broadly.
Employers would be required to establish workplace-specific policies, conduct awareness programmes and training, and ensure that clear action is taken against perpetrators to maintain a safe working environment.
The bill further stipulates that the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) must be notified when such committees are formed, replacing the current requirement to notify the Employment Tribunal.
Changes have also been proposed to the composition of the committees. While the current law requires three members, including at least one woman, the amendment allows for a flexible number of members, with a minimum of three and representation from both sexes.
The bill details procedures for handling cases, requiring committees to notify decisions within five days. Committees will have up to 60 days to review cases, with the option to extend the period by an additional 30 days if necessary. It also grants committees the authority to suspend the respondent with pay during the investigation period.
In cases involving members of the uniformed services, the bill states that such individuals hold positions of public trust, and decisions made by committees in these cases must be referred to the Civil Court.
The proposed amendments aim to strengthen protections for victims and improve enforcement mechanisms under the existing law.