The "ambient sexual harassment" at work, a new concept that encourages companies to react

In the late 2010s, a university lecturer engaged in sexually suggestive behavior during classes, leading to legal action. The Court of Cassation ruled in March 2025 that such actions could constitute sexual harassment, even if not directed at specific individuals. A similar case in May 2026 involved a female employee facing a hostile work environment due to her superior's sexist behavior. The court recognized the concept of "environmental sexual harassment," allowing victims of a toxic atmosphere to seek justice without being directly targeted. This legal shift acknowledges the harmful effects of pervasive sexualized environments on workers, particularly women, who may experience various psychological issues and feel less legitimate in their roles.