Abstract
Sexual harassment in the workplace constitutes a profound violation of human dignity,
equality, and fundamental labour rights. It reflects unequal power relations that are often
reinforced by structural, cultural, and institutional factors, making it not merely an individual
workplace grievance but a systemic form of gender-based violence and discrimination. Over
the past decades, international law has progressively evolved to recognize sexual harassment
as a serious human rights concern requiring comprehensive legal, institutional, and preventive
responses. This evolution marks a shift from narrow disciplinary approaches to broader
frameworks that emphasize prevention, accountability, and the creation of safe and inclusive
working environments. This article critically examines the international legal framework
governing protection against workplace sexual harassment, with particular focus on
instruments developed under the United Nations and the International Labour Organization,
It explores key normative instruments, including CEDAW and ILO Convention No. 190, as well
as related labour and human rights standards that collectively establish obligations for states
to prohibit harassment, ensure effective remedies, and promote workplace equality. The article
interrogates the normative content of these instruments and evaluates their relevance and
applicability within the Nigerian legal context. It further argues that despite Nigeria’s
participation in key international regimes and its commitment to gender equality at the
international level, significant domestic challenges persist. These include a fragmented and
inconsistent legal framework, and weak enforcement mechanisms that undermine practical
protection for victims. Cultural stigma, underreporting, and limited institutional capacity
further exacerbate these challenges. Drawing on comparative insights and international best
practices, the article proposes comprehensive reforms aimed at bridging the gap between
international standards and domestic implementation. Ultimately, the article contends that
meaningful protection against workplace sexual harassment in Nigeria can only be achieved
through an integrated approach that aligns legal frameworks, institutional capacity, and social
norms with evolving global standards.