A scoping review of measures and definitions to address methodological and evidence gaps on sexual harassment

Abstract

Despite progress in collecting data on violence against women—particularly intimate partner violence—sexual harassment remains under-researched due to the lack of standardized definitions and measurement tools. This gap has hindered accurate assessment and contributed to a fragmented understanding of its prevalence and impact. The underprioritization of sexual harassment has also posed major challenges to developing effective, evidence-based prevention and response strategies.

To address this, data producers are increasingly incorporating sexual harassment into violence against women surveys, though definitions and measures still vary. This paper begins by analyzing a comprehensive definition of sexual harassment, then reviews data collection efforts supported by UN Women and the EMERGE initiative, which has evaluated scientifically validated survey tools.

It highlights diverse approaches to measuring sexual harassment, contributing to ongoing work on establishing global standards. The paper also presents evidence on the prevalence, characteristics, and consequences of sexual harassment in public and private spaces, including online, showing its widespread nature across regions.

The findings underscore the urgent need for standardized measures and definitions to strengthen recognition of the harm caused by sexual harassment and improve prevention and response strategies. The paper concludes with actionable recommendations to guide future efforts.