A new International Labour Organization (ILO) report reveals that violence and harassment in the workplace are widespread in several West African countries. According to the study, more than half of workers in Senegal (65%) and Côte d’Ivoire (58%) and nearly half in Burkina Faso (43%) reported experiencing violence or harassment at work. The research highlights that such incidents remain a largely hidden problem that undermines workers’ dignity, health, and productivity.
The report provides one of the most comprehensive analyses of workplace violence and harassment in the three countries, showing that psychological violence and harassment are the most common forms. These often occur alongside physical or sexual violence. While men are more likely to experience physical violence, women face a higher risk of sexual violence and harassment. Both younger and older workers are among the groups most affected.
Violence and harassment frequently occur within workplaces but also extend beyond them, including during commuting, interactions with the public, and in digital or remote work environments. In many cases, perpetrators are third parties such as clients, patients, or members of the public rather than colleagues or supervisors.
The consequences for workers are significant. Many victims report deteriorating mental health, including increased stress, anxiety, and depression, while others experience physical harm. These experiences can lower confidence, reduce job satisfaction, and lead to higher absenteeism and lower productivity, particularly among women and younger employees.
Despite the scale of the issue, reporting rates remain low. Only about 60% of victims report incidents, and many prefer to confide in family members, friends, or colleagues rather than use formal complaint systems. Fear of stigma, retaliation, or the belief that incidents are not serious enough often discourages workers from seeking official support.
Although legal frameworks and institutional mechanisms exist in the three countries, the report notes that they are often fragmented, poorly known, or difficult to access, especially for vulnerable workers. The findings highlight the urgent need for stronger prevention and protection measures, as well as improved reporting systems and support services.
The research calls for inclusive, integrated, and gender-responsive action in line with the ILO Convention on Violence and Harassment (No. 190), which establishes an international framework for preventing and addressing violence in the world of work. By highlighting the scale and impact of the issue, the report aims to support governments, employers, and workers in developing effective strategies to eliminate workplace violence and harassment.
