By Mohamed Lamin Banya
A new international study on sexual harassment in media workplaces has revealed that 27% of media professionals in Sierra Leone have experienced some form of sexual harassment at work in 2025.
The study, conducted by WAN-IFRA Women in News in partnership with BBC Media Action and City St George’s, University of London, surveyed 298 media workers across the country. It found that women are twice as likely as men to experience verbal, online, and physical harassment in newsrooms.
Online harassment was reported as the most common form, followed by verbal abuse, while physical harassment was less frequent. The report also noted that women often experience repeated incidents more than men.
Researchers say most victims do not report cases to their employers due to fear of retaliation, lack of reporting systems, or the belief that the incidents are not serious.
The study highlights that where reports were made, employers often took limited action, such as warning perpetrators, while some cases led to suspensions or police involvement.
The report links the problem to broader structural challenges in Sierra Leone, including weak accountability systems and cultural barriers within the media industry.
Despite the concerns, the study notes some progress, including legal reforms such as the Sexual Offences Act and the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act, which aim to strengthen protections for women.
The report calls for stronger workplace policies, improved reporting mechanisms, and regular training to address sexual harassment in the media sector.
