A new report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) reveals that violence and harassment in the workplace remain widespread in parts of West Africa. According to the study, 65 percent of workers in Senegal and 58 percent in Côte d’Ivoire report having experienced violence or harassment at work, while 43 percent of workers in Burkina Faso report similar experiences. The findings highlight a significant but often hidden problem that affects workers’ dignity, health, and productivity.
The report, titled Making the Invisible Visible: Understanding and Combating Violence and Harassment at Work in Three West African Countries, provides one of the most detailed analyses of the issue in Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal. It shows that psychological violence and harassment are the most common forms experienced by workers, frequently occurring alongside physical or sexual abuse. While men are more likely to experience physical violence, women face higher levels of sexual violence and harassment, with both younger and older workers identified as particularly vulnerable.
Violence and harassment are not limited to the workplace itself but can also occur during commuting, interactions with the public, or in digital and remote work environments. The report notes that third parties such as clients, patients, or members of the public are often responsible for such incidents, making prevention and accountability more complex.
The consequences of workplace violence and harassment are significant. Many victims report serious impacts on their mental and physical health, including increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. These experiences also affect workers’ confidence, motivation, and job satisfaction, contributing to higher absenteeism and reduced productivity, particularly among women and young employees.
Despite the scale of the problem, many incidents remain unreported. Only about 60 percent of victims disclose their experiences, and most choose to confide in family members, friends, or colleagues rather than using formal reporting channels. Fear of stigma, retaliation, and the perception that incidents are not serious enough to report often discourage workers from seeking official support.
Although legal and institutional mechanisms to address workplace violence exist in the three countries studied, the report notes that they are often fragmented, poorly understood, and difficult to access. Vulnerable workers in particular face barriers in reporting cases or receiving protection, highlighting the need for stronger and more coordinated systems.
The report calls for more inclusive and gender-responsive action to address the issue, including the ratification and implementation of the ILO Convention on Violence and Harassment (Convention No. 190). This international framework aims to prevent and eliminate violence and harassment in the world of work, while ensuring stronger protection and support mechanisms for workers. By providing evidence and recommendations, the study aims to guide governments, employers, and workers in developing effective strategies to create safer and more respectful workplaces.
