Sexual Harassment in South African Court buildings: Dedicated LifeLine Support

Sexual harassment within court buildings can manifest in various forms, including:

• Unwanted sexual advances
• Inappropriate touching or physical contact
• Suggestive comments or jokes
• Unwelcome sexual gestures
• Persistent requests for dates or sexual favours
• Offensive comments about one’s appearance or body
• Sharing sexually explicit materials without consent

If you or anyone you know has experienced any of these forms of harassment, it is crucial to seek help immediately.

Addressing the issue of sexual harassment

The Democratic Governance and Rights Unit (DGRU) is committed to addressing the issue of sexual harassment in court settings through rigorous research and advocacy. When embarking on this project, the DGRU prioritised the safety and well-being of participants by implementing comprehensive safety measures to prevent secondary harm.

In order to ensure everyone in the court buildings across South Africa have access to necessary support, the DGRU has collaborated with LifeLine, Western Cape. to set up a dedicated WhatsApp  helpline to receive complaints related to sexual harassment within court buildings. This Helpline is manned by highly trained and skilled counsellors who provide confidential support and guidance. The Helpline number is +27 72 355 2341.

For confidentiality, LifeLine counsellors do not collect any personal identifying information.

Take Action: Speak Up and Seek Help

If you or anyone you know has experienced sexual harassment or any form of unwarranted attention within court buildings, it is imperative to speak up. Contact LifeLine, Western Cape for confidential support and guidance.

Helpline Number: +27 72 355 2341

Together, we can create a safer, more respectful environment within our judicial system. Your voice matters, and seeking help is a crucial step towards justice and healing.