Approaching sexual harassment from the perspective of Hungarian law

author Agnes Czine
journal RIDP (ISSN: 0223-5404)
volume 2024
issue Researching the boundaries of sexual integrity, gender violence and image-based abuse
section Sexual integrity
date of publication Sept. 20, 2024
language English
pagina 97
abstract

In Hungary, the concept and regulation of sexual harassment is a relatively recent development in the evolution of the law. A definition in line with international understanding is used to describe this conduct. Although known sexual harassment is common in the workplace, the latency rate is extremely high, as women do not wish to suffer the ordeal of the procedures involved. Criminal law has not developed a distinct concept or specific sanctions for this act under the general offence of harassment. In Hungary, the Equal Treatment Authority, acting under administrative law in the framework of equal opportunities legislation, has the most extensive case law in this area. This paper aims to show that further development of Hungarian legislation may be justified. A clarification of the concept would be necessary, as Hungarian legislation defines harassment but treats it together with sexual harassment. De lege ferenda it may be justified to define sexual harassment as a separate criminal offence.