The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has introduced two initiatives focused on addressing gender-based violence and harassment (GBVH) in workplaces globally. The Gender-Based Violence Center of Expertise and Respect@Work Program are designed to help businesses create safer work environments while supporting gender equality and improved business performance.
New Initiatives Address Critical Workplace Issue
The Gender-Based Violence Center of Expertise functions as a knowledge hub, offering IFC clients and private sector partners access to toolkits, training resources, and advisory support. The center helps companies develop policies and practices that prevent and respond to GBVH, contributing to more resilient workplace cultures built on respect and accountability.
Working alongside this effort is the Respect@Work program, launched as part of IFC’s Kenya2Equal Initiative in partnership with the Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE).
This program creates a peer-learning platform where companies can collaborate and share strategies for building safer working environments. The platform incorporates real-world case studies and follows international best practices, including guidelines from ILO Convention 190.
Business Case for Action
Research demonstrates that addressing gender-based violence and harassment delivers measurable business benefits. Companies that take proactive steps to tackle these issues typically see improved employee retention, higher productivity levels, and enhanced reputations. Workplaces free from violence and harassment also find it easier to attract skilled talent and encourage innovation.
“Gender-based violence and harassment is not just a personal issue, it is a workplace issue, and one that demands urgent and collective action,” said Gillian Rogers, IFC’s Principal Country Officer in Kenya. “The evidence is clear: workplaces free from violence and harassment are more productive, innovative, and inclusive. IFC is committed to partnering with the private sector, offering evidence-based solutions and sharing practical experiences to create work environments where every worker feels safe, valued, and empowered.”
Building on Existing Efforts
The Respect@Work Program builds on IFC’s ongoing work to promote respectful workplaces and represents part of the organization’s broader commitment to addressing workplace challenges that affect both individual wellbeing and business outcomes.
