The issue of sexual harassment has been discussed in very few forums in the Orthodox Church These discussions have mainly taken place in the USA, and yet such events have been related at various gatherings where Orthodox women are present as delegates. It is obvious and well known that such occurrences of sexual harassment can happen to Orthodox women in their parishes and in the workplace and in all countries. The offender has been employer, work associate, priest, deacon, chanter and layperson. Such behaviour is wrong. Women are usually afraid and embarrassed and believe they caused the offence to occur. This brochure has been published by the WCC in order to provide some outline of what sexual harassment Is, and how it can be prevented or dealt with in the most effective way. (Editor)

Christians affirm the basic dignity of all humankind, created in the image of God. In gatherings of the churches and in other meetings of the ecumenical movement, an environment of welcome and hospitality encourages the full and equal participation of all. The WCC strives to bring together a community of solidarity and mutual concern which challenges all forms of violence against women, and where faith and principles are expressed in appropriate action. Such a community will not accept violence against women, which is an intolerable manifestation of unequal power relations between men and women. When human sin breaks the trust in this community, Christians are called to assist, to be Christ present for those who struggle for their dignity and rights, to manifest concern for the welfare of others and loving kindness to people in need. A fundamental respect for each human being includes a commitment to the rights and dignity of women.

Violence against women:

The Ecumenical Decade of the Churches in Solidarity with women has brought to focus the issue of violence against women. There is a call from women of all the regions for solidarity action from the churches to deal with the various expressions of institutional and personal violence that women experience. Sexual harassment has been identified as the most common expression of this violence. Incidents of sexual harassment and assault at church and ecumenical meetings have engaged the churches and the ecumenical movement in seeking responsible action and policy. Reports have been received from churches and ecumenical womens organisations from around the world reflecting this commitment. Many governments have introduced legislative remedies to protect victims of violence and sexual harassment.

The purpose of the pamphlet was to aid the building of a Christian community marked by solidarity, despite the brokeness in our midst. It is intended to encourage men to reflect on their attitudes to women in the spirit of community that the ecumenical movement upholds. It is also intended to encourage women to assert their dignity and contribute to the renewal of community. How can each of us, in our worship, work and meetings help to create a reconciled, respectful community, conducive to the full humanity of all?

How can each person be encouraged to take seriously his or her individual responsibilities in the multi-dimensional cross-cultural interactions of the ecumenical world, where ambiguities and uncertainties often exist? Normal friendliness and sociability can be misinterpreted in a culturally mixed group and even between individuals of the same culture. Expressing the warmth felt for others, without any sense of dominance or coercion, is one of the challenges faced by the ecumenical community.

What is sexual harassment and assault?

On a continuum of severity, aggression ranges from whistles in the street and obscene phone calls to sexual assault. Sexual assault includes rape, sexual intercourse without consent, and sexual contact without consent.

Several kinds of behaviour with a sexual connotation, if unsolicited and unwanted and especially if repetitive, can be forms of sexual harassment. Examples are suggestive looks or leers, obscene gestures, sexual remarks, comments, teasing or telling of jokes with sexual content, imposed touching or closeness, pressure for dates or activities with a sexual overtone, or offer to use influence in return for sexual favour.

Sexual harassment also includes discrimination on the basis of gender, causing stress or humiliation to the victim. This may happen in situations where dominance and abuse of power result in a lack of respect for and mistreatment of people as sexual objects, which demeans amd destroys the dignity of the victim.

What are some of the things you can do if you are being sexually harassed?

Refuse any inappropriate gesture or contact

Make it clear to the harasser that the behaviour is unwelcome. You can say 'no' with a look, words or gestures. Sometimes this can be conveyed by ridiculing the harasser.

If harassment persists, and you are in a public place, make your protests louder so that the public notices the harasser, and the kind of objectionable things done are known. This may be important so that others are not subjected to the same treatment. A record of events will help.

Get support. Contact someone who can help you themselves, or who can put you in touch with the local centre against sexual harassment and assault.

Concluding statement:

The churches and the World Council of Churches are called to develop a truly inclusive community free of violence and injustice. Sexual harassment and all forms of violence against women will not be tolerated or condoned and offenders will be held responsible for their behaviour, and are subject to appropriate disciplinary action.