The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) has today (16 March 2018) issued legal proceedings under the Sex Discrimination Ordinance (SDO), Cap. 480, in the District Court on behalf of a woman (Claimant) claiming that the Respondent, who managed the premises occupied by the Claimant at the material time, had sexually harassed her with sexual remarks.

Under the SDO, sexual harassment includes any unwelcome sexual advances, unwelcome requests for sexual favours, and other unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, where a reasonable person, having regard to all the circumstances, would have anticipated that the victim would be offended, humiliated or intimidated. The SDO applies to various areas of activity, including the disposal or management of premises. The alleged act committed by the Respondent therefore falls within the purview of the SDO.

By taking this case to court, the EOC hopes to remind members of the public that it is unlawful under the SDO for a person to make any sexual remarks to an occupier of the premises managed by him/her, and to enhance public awareness of the importance of combating sexual harassment on all levels.
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Equal Opportunities Commission
16 March 2018