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Sexual harassment and gender discrimination: two sides of the same coin?

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to investigate gender equality in labor relations. From the historical context of the sexist division of social attributes, it seeks to show the difficulties of inserting women into the labor market considering the patriarchal power structure. Thereby the article tries, on a more specific basis, to assess the relationship between sexual harassment and gender discrimination, with a critical comparison of the two phenomena, by analyzing pertinent legal texts and court decisions. The central argument is the theoretical validity of the premise that sexual harassment is regarded as a possible expression of discrimination – especially when it implies the reproduction of gender stereotypes and norms – but without excluding the possibility of treating it as a violation of human dignity and the right to enjoy a healthy and balanced working environment. Finally, it proposes a global approach as a more effective mean of dealing with the issue.

Sexual harassment; gender; woman; discrimination; labor

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