What should an employee do if they witness harassment in the workplace?

When an employee witnesses harassment in the workplace, it is critical that they report the incident to the relevant authority. This action ensures that the issue is addressed through the proper channels, which often include human resources or a designated manager responsible for handling such matters. Reporting helps to create a safer work environment and allows the organization to take appropriate steps to investigate and resolve the situation in accordance with company policy and legal obligations.

Maintaining silence can perpetuate the problem and harm others who may be affected by the harassment. Confronting the harasser independently can place the bystander in a precarious situation and may not effectively resolve the issue. Additionally, discussing the incident only with close coworkers might not lead to any formal action being taken and could, in fact, lead to further misunderstandings or gossip. Reporting to the relevant authority is the most responsible and effective action an employee can take to address harassment in the workplace.