Sunday 5 November 2017

SEXUAL HARRASSMENT : WHAT CAN BE DONE ?


The "Weinstein Revelations" have provoked stories of similarly concealed sexual aggressions worldwide,  which have also systematically escaped prosecution.   It is necessary to understand how and why aggressors were not prosecuted.  

In order to prosecute an Aggressor evidence and witnesses are both usually necessary.   Also, the person aggressed must be prepared to testify that there was no consent. 

The absence of a witness is probably the most usual reason why a Prosecution cannot be undertaken.  There are two frequent and classic situations where a prosecution may not be possible :

a)  A young or immature girl (or boy) with little or no experience who is too afraid to confide about what happened.
b)  A woman (or man) who is aggressed at work by a "Boss" but who fears for her job.

The non-prosecution of some Aggressors quickly breeds contempt or "Habitual Aggressors", who abuse their Position of Trust.  Typical examples are Teachers, Bosses, VIPs and family relations. 

This Blog has already suggested that a "Register of Complaints" (1) should be made available in all police stations and linked to a central computer.  This would enable "timid" people, with the help of a friend, to file a report on a standard form.   This would also enable the Police to identify "Habitual Aggressors", even when they are active in a wider territory !

A sudden multitude of accusations, like that reported in the Press concerning Harvey Weinstein, could also be provoked by such a Register.  

Likewise, if MPs or VIPs are regularly "protected" from prosecution by well placed friends, such a Register could help ensure justice....... but only future experience will reveal if this is the case !

(1)  Read : "Stop sexual aggressions by the Boss"

                                                  .        








 


              

No comments:

Post a Comment