Transparency Maldives today called for a stand against sexual corruption within the workplace.
In a social media post to mark International Workers' Day on May 1, the organization highlighted that corruption involving sexual favors in return for money or financial gain is a prevalent and ongoing issue.
"Corruption isn’t always about money. It can be pressure for sex or sexual favors in exchange for jobs, promotions, or basic rights. This is sexual corruption, and it thrives in silence," it stated.
The organization further explained that key characteristics of such corruption include those in authority abusing their power, demanding additional favors in exchange for services, and specifically seeking sexual gratification.
Additionally, Tansparency Maldives emphasized that sexual corruption is not confined to any specific type of work environment.
"It is not limited to any specific country or sector. It can happen anywhere there is a lack of integrity among those in power, and they attempt to sexually exploit those who are vulnerable and dependent on them," the post read.
Transparency Maldives warned that sexual corruption is a predatory practice that will continue to spread unless actively challenged and spoken out against. To address the issue, the organization has announced plans to conduct a study to determine the extent to which sexual corruption has taken root in the Maldives.
