Key Takeaways
- The Sexual Harassment Tribunal has processed 22 complaints since July 2024, including two from males, showing increased empowerment and engagement.
- About 50% of complaints came from the private sector, with 20 females and two males reported as of December 31, 2025.
- The tribunal has closed 64% of cases swiftly, reflecting its commitment to addressing complaints efficiently.
- Established in February 2025, the tribunal aims to create safe work environments and resolve complaints fairly and promptly.
- The PIOJ has conducted 133 sensitization sessions, engaged 420 organizations, and supported 69 in drafting workplace sexual harassment policies.
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
It’s exciting to share that the Sexual Harassment Tribunal has been making important strides since its inception! Since it began reviewing workplace complaints in July of last year, 22 individuals came forward and submitted their claims. Notably, this includes two males who felt empowered to participate.
This initiative reflects a growing commitment to creating safe and respectful work environments for everyone.
At least half of the complaints filed came from employees in the private sector. As of December 31, 2025, the tribunal received complaints from 20 females and two males. This is according to the 2025 edition of the Economic and Social Survey Jamaica, published by the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ).
According to the PIOJ, approximately 50% of the complaints came from individuals in the private sector. Additionally, complaints from the public sector accounted for 36%, while educational institutions contributed 14%.
Throughout the review process, the tribunal has successfully closed 64% of cases, with 32% currently pending and only 4% withdrawn. This progress showcases the tribunal’s dedication to addressing complaints efficiently.
The Upper House in the Jamaican Parliament approved the Sexual Harassment Tribunal.
Following the implementation of the Sexual Harassment (Protection and Prevention) Act in 2021, the Cabinet approved the establishment of a 14-member Sexual Harassment Tribunal in February 2025.
This dedicated tribunal plays a vital role in hearing complaints and ensuring that appropriate actions are taken to foster a safe working environment
The PIOJ described the tribunal’s establishment as a significant step in Jamaica’s efforts to combat sexual harassment. Moreover, it provides a dedicated mechanism for the timely and fair resolution of complaints. This fosters safer and more respectful working environments.
From April to January 2026, the Sexual Harassment Investigation Unit conducted a total of 133 sensitization sessions, reaching 6,136 participants.
Overall, 420 organizations were engaged, including 250 staff members from various ministries, departments, and government agencies. Additionally, 170 staff from private sector organizations participated.
Moreover, the PIOJ has provided support to 69 organizations to help them draft or review their workplace sexual harassment policies in compliance with the legislation. In total, the PIOJ reviewed 77 sexual harassment workplace policies.
This story was first published in the Jamaica Oserver