The debate in plenary

The European Parliament opposes sexual harassment, not only in society in general, but also when involving its own members and staff. During today's debate MEPs not only condemned such behaviour, but also called for measures to be put in place and for the inclusion of men as part of the solution.

The problem is still underreported as many victims are too afraid or ashamed to speak about it. “The only one responsible is the person who harasses and attacks," said Spanish S&D member Iratxe García Perez.. She said we need to be supportive of victims "so that they do not feel ashamed, do not be afraid to lose their jobs, stop feeling guilty for something”.

“We have reached the end of our patience and the silence has been broken,” said Polish EPP member Agnieszka Kozłowska-Rajewicz. “Victims have started to speak up and their voice has begun to be heard.”