How to Tackle Sexual Harassment Against Men

Prevalence

According to lntriallawyers.com, at least 7–10% of men have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace. A 2022 survey found that men were more likely than women to have more than one perpetrator of sexual harassment in the last 12 months. Among those aged 18–24 who experienced sexual harassment, most reported having a single perpetrator.

60% of such cases are committed by trusted individuals like parents, teachers, peers, church leaders, caregivers, and community figures.

When it comes to intimate partner violence, the CDC reports that about one in three men have faced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime. Additionally, 1in6.org highlights that at least 1 in 6 men have experienced sexual abuse or assault. In Kenya, the Wangu Kanja Foundation, a non-profit that supports survivors of sexual violence, states that 60% of such cases are committed by trusted individuals like parents, teachers, peers, church leaders, caregivers, and community figures.

Follow our WhatsApp Channel here to stay updated

While women and girls remain the primary victims of reported sexual harassment worldwide—UN-Habitat reports that one in every seven women in Nairobi experiences sexual abuse, with three out of five cases involving rape—men should not be overlooked. The low reporting rates of sexual abuse against males have contributed to the misconception that this crime primarily affects women. Yet, many men and boys experience sexual violence, facing similar feelings, reactions, and consequences as female survivors. However, they often encounter additional challenges due to societal attitudes, stigma, and stereotypes surrounding masculinity.

The low reporting rate is largely due to patriarchal norms that promote masculinity over vulnerability, contributing to what is frequently referred to as the “iceberg phenomenon” of male sexual abuse

Research suggests that at least 1 in 6 men have experienced sexual abuse or assault, whether as children or adults, though this is likely a conservative estimate. The low reporting rate is largely due to patriarchal norms that promote masculinity over vulnerability, contributing to what is frequently referred to as the “iceberg phenomenon” of male sexual abuse—where most incidents remain hidden beneath the surface. Law enforcement and service providers typically fail to recognize boys as victims of sexual exploitation, further compounding the issue.

In Kenya, the growing awareness of sexual violence against boys has gained traction through mainstream and social media. This increased coverage is helping to raise advocacy and awareness about the risks men and boys face when it comes to sexual violence and harassment.

Fighting Sexual Harassment Against Men

Sexual Health Week, observed from 11th to 15th September, highlights the importance of sexual health for everyone, including both men and women. While sexual harassment is often viewed as a women’s issue, it’s crucial to acknowledge that men also experience harassment. However, due to societal stigma, men are often reluctant to report such incidents or seek help, making their experiences largely invisible.

Sexual harassment is any unwanted sexual behaviour that causes a person to feel upset, scared, offended, or humiliated. Unfortunately, this has often been framed as an issue affecting only women, overlooking the fact that many men face similar challenges but remain silent due to feelings of shame or fear of ridicule.

The Roots of the Problem

The roots of male sexual harassment can be easily be traced back to childhood. In some cases, boys are exposed to inappropriate sexual behaviour by caregivers or trusted adults, leading to long-term psychological effects. These early experiences are kept secret, as boys are taught to feel ashamed or are explicitly told not to speak up. This silence can follow them into adulthood, impacting their mental health and leaving them vulnerable to further harassment.

Workplace Harassment

In the workplace, men may also face harassment from female colleagues or superiors. This can manifest through unwanted physical contact or inappropriate comments disguised as jokes. Unfortunately, men are less likely to report such incidents, either because they don’t fully understand what constitutes harassment or because of societal stereotypes that make it seem like men shouldn’t be affected.

A viral TikTok video recently highlighted this harmful mentality, where boys mocked a man who had been sexually assaulted, questioning how a man could allow himself to be raped. This attitude is not only harmful but perpetuates the silence surrounding male sexual abuse. It’s heartbreaking to see this level of ridicule, especially when it coincides with increasing male suicide rates. Many of these men might have been struggling in silence, shamed into believing that asking for help is a sign of weakness.

Changing the Narrative

It’s important to recognize that men, too, encounter physical and emotional harassment. We’ve lost too many men already, and it’s time for a change. Men should know that it’s okay to be vulnerable and that speaking up is a sign of strength, not weakness. Addressing this issue requires societal change, starting with how we treat male vulnerability. Instead of shaming men for being open about their experiences, we need to create an environment where everyone, regardless of gender, can feel safe.

Ending male sexual harassment begins with respect, consent, and education. By fostering open conversations and encouraging victims to come forward, we can create safer spaces for all. Everyone has a role to play in ensuring that harassment is no longer swept under the rug—especially for men.

Follow our WhatsApp Channel here to stay updated