Sexual Harassment against Female Employees at Tourism Destinations:

A case study in Northern Cyprus

Abstract

Sexual harassment is defined by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission [EEOC] as “unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favours, and other sexually based verbal or physical conduct with the aim or effect of violating a person's dignity”. Sexual harassment, as well as the rise in the number of cases, is a major problem of tourism destinations and is extremely common in the hospitality sector. The aim of this research is to examine how women employees in this industry in North Cyprus experience sexual harassment and whether they perceive the behaviors or acts that constitute sexual harassment. Qualitative research is used to understand women employees’ feelings and challenges. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten women employees working at five-star hotels. Findings show that women employees face sexual harassment and gender inequality in hospitality sector is clearly seen in tourism and hospitality. This study can be used by the stakeholders of tourism sector, such as governmental offices and hotel owners to establish a gender equal and safer environment for women employees. Success of a tourism destination depends on providing a high-quality service, which can be obtained only if you create a safe and peaceful working environment for the employees.