Violence and Harassment Are Not Part of the Job — We Stand With Women in Commerce

Today, on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, LÍV and UNI Europa Commerce stand with all women and girls who experience violence, harassment, and discrimination — at work, at home, and in society.

Women make up the majority of workers in commerce and services in Iceland, and across Europe. Yet far too many still face verbal abuse, sexual harassment, threats, and aggression from customers, colleagues, and managers. New technologies, such as self-checkout systems, have increased the pressure — often shifting responsibility for safety and surveillance onto employees.

We call for:

• All European countries to ratify and implement International Labour Organization Convention No. 190 (ILO C190) on violence and harassment in the world of work.

• Companies to adopt clear procedures and protection plans against harassment and violence.

• Survivors to receive support, confidentiality, and safe reporting pathways.

Violence and harassment in the workplace are labour issues — not private issues.
Together we can build workplaces where everyone is treated with dignity, safety, and equality.