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South Africa has recently unveiled a comprehensive policy to eradicate harassment in the public service, aligning with international standards set by the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 190. South Africa becomes the first African nation to adopt such measures, emphasizing zero tolerance for violence and harassment in the workplace.

The launch event held in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, brought together key figures from various sectors, highlighting the policy’s significance in promoting a safe, inclusive, and respectful working environment. The policy addresses all forms of harassment, including sexual, physical, psychological, and discriminatory harassment, ensuring protection for vulnerable groups such as women, persons with disabilities, and the LGBTQIA+ community.

The policy enforces a strict zero-tolerance approach to any form of violence and harassment in the workplace. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all employees, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other vulnerable statuses.

In his keynote address, the Minister of the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, hailed the policy as a decisive step forward. “This launch demonstrates our government’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and progressive working environment where all public servants excel in the execution of their duties“. The policy aims to hold perpetrators accountable, while offering robust support and protection for victims, thus fostering a culture of respect and professionalism.

Oscar Mabuyane, The Premier of the Eastern Cape, emphasized the policy’s role as a critical tool in combating workplace harassment, particularly against women: “Sex-for-jobs scandals and workplace bullying violate the dignity of women and young females… Psychological trauma destroys lives, marriages, and careers—it must be stopped in its tracks. The province is committed to leading by example, ensuring transparency, and offering support such as counselling and legal assistance to victims.”

James Christoff, High Commissioner of Canada to South Africa, praised South Africa’s leadership in fostering gender equality and inclusive governance. “This policy moves from paper to practice, fostering environments where every individual is treated with dignity and respect, where ethical conduct is the foundation of every action, and where integrity is at the heart of public service,” the High Commissioner noted.

The International Labour Organization commended South Africa for its leadership in ratifying ILO Convention C190. “This policy, aligned with ILO Convention 190, expands the definition of the ‘world of work’ and addresses all forms of harassment—not just sexual harassment—ensuring dignity, privacy, and equality for all,” Mr Simphiwe Mabhele stated. The ILO called for collective commitment from all stakeholders to ensure the policy’s success.

The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) expressed its support, highlighting the policy’s role in guiding HR practitioners and harassment committees, and noting the importance of strengthening the legal frameworks related to harassment.

This landmark policy sets a precedent for South Africa and serves as a model for other nations striving to create equitable and respectful work environments. As the policy moves from theory to practice, it promises to transform the public service into a bastion of integrity and human dignity.

The policy was developed with the support of technical experts from Cowater International under the Strengthening Ethics and Integrity Project (SEIP). SEIP is funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and implemented in partnership with the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA). SEIP provides technical assistance to the DPSA and aims to increase the accountability, efficiency, and transparency of the South African public administration in delivering gender-responsive services to the public.