Creating Safe Spaces: An Integrative Framework for Preventing Sexual Harassment in Hospitality

The Significance of the Hospitality Industry

The hospitality and tourism industry is a critical pillar of the global economy. In 2022, its direct contribution to the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was approximately USD 7.7 trillion, accounting for 7.6% of the global economy. This marked a significant recovery from the pandemic, with a 22% increase from 2021 (World Travel & Tourism Council, 2023). Projections from the WTTC indicate that by 2033, the sector will contribute USD 15.5 trillion to the global GDP, representing 11.6% of the global economy.

The Pervasiveness of Sexual Harassment in Hospitality
Despite its economic importance, the hospitality and tourism industry faces the pervasive issue of sexual harassment. The industry’s commitment to customer satisfaction, where “the customer is king,” often exacerbates this problem. Sexual harassment, as defined by the United Nations for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (2023), includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, and any behavior that creates a hostile work environment.

Prevalence and Impact
Studies reveal high prevalence rates of sexual harassment in hospitality. Between 54% and 81% of women report experiencing some form of harassment at work (Kolmar, 2023), yet 58% to 72% refrain from reporting incidents. Workers in hospitality and food services account for 14% of harassment charges, with tipped employees being particularly vulnerable.

The COVID-19 pandemic has shifted the dynamics of workplace harassment, increasing online harassment and exposing employees to new risks due to economic instability and increased use of freelancers (Strenio & Chowdhury, 2021; Vitak et al., 2017; Dahl & Knepper, 2021).

Contributing Factors
Several factors contribute to the high rates of sexual harassment in hospitality:
– Customer Interactions: The close and personalized nature of customer service can create opportunities for inappropriate behavior (Gilbert, Guerrier, & Guy, 1998; Ram, 2018).
– Employment Nature: The transient and part-time nature of many hospitality jobs can lead to power imbalances, making employees more vulnerable (Poulston, 2008).

Consequences of Sexual Harassment
The impacts of sexual harassment are profound:
– Individual Level: Victims may experience emotional distress, anxiety, and decreased mental health, affecting personal relationships and career satisfaction (Barling, Rogers, & Kelloway, 2001; Willness, Steel, & Lee, 2007).
– Group Level: Harassment can erode organizational culture, reduce morale, and lower job satisfaction (Fitzgerald et al., 1997).
– Organizational Level: Increased turnover, financial losses, legal liabilities, and damage to reputation are common consequences (Fitzgerald, 1993).

An Integrative Framework for Prevention
Developed from fieldwork at EHL Hospitality Business School, the proposed framework for preventing sexual harassment in hospitality is grounded in a culture of care and comprises four pillars: building awareness, training for anti-harassment skills, monitoring progression, and taking action.

1. Building Awareness
– Campaigns and Commitment: Awareness campaigns highlight leadership and organizational commitment to a harassment-free environment (Buchanan et al., 2014).
– Clear Sanctions: Articulating clear consequences for inappropriate behavior engages all stakeholders in maintaining respect.

2. Training for Anti-Harassment Skills
– Interactive Training: Scenario-based training helps employees recognize, address, and prevent harassment (Campbell et al., 2013; Desplaces & Ogilvie, 2020).
– Bystander Involvement: Encouraging bystanders to support victims and report incidents fosters a collective responsibility for safety (Lee, Hanson, & Cheung, 2019; Liang & Park, 2022).

3. Monitoring Progression
– Assessment and Impact: Regular assessments of training effectiveness and awareness levels demonstrate the organization’s commitment (Astrauskaite et al., 2015).

4. Taking Action
– Swift Response: Prompt and impartial responses to reports, along with robust victim support and perpetrator accountability, are crucial.

Creating a Culture of Care
This framework emphasizes a holistic approach to preventing sexual harassment by fostering a culture of care. By integrating training, bystander intervention, victim support, perpetrator accountability, and customer education, hospitality organizations can create environments where individuals feel respected and safe. As workplaces evolve, this framework serves as a guide for building respectful and dignified work environments.