The medical world is confronting a deeply troubling reality: widespread sexual harassment and abuse within its ranks. A new anthology, Sexual harassment between doctors: healing medical cultures around the world, co-edited by researchers from the Australian National University and the University of Glasgow, aims to shed light on this pervasive issue and, crucially, to identify pathways toward safer and more respectful healthcare environments. Published in February 2026, the book represents a significant collaborative effort to address a problem that impacts doctors at all stages of their careers, particularly those in training.
The anthology arrives at a critical juncture. Recent surveys paint a stark picture of the prevalence of sexual harassment in medicine. The issue extends beyond isolated incidents, representing a systemic problem rooted in power imbalances, hierarchical structures, and often, a culture of silence. Understanding the nuances of this problem – the forms it takes, the factors that contribute to it, and the barriers to reporting – is the first step toward meaningful change. This new research builds on growing awareness of the issue, spurred by increased reporting and advocacy efforts globally.
Co-editors Professor Rosalind Searle of the University of Glasgow’s Adam Smith Business School, Associate Professor Louise Stone of the Australian National University, and Elizabeth Waldron have brought together diverse perspectives and experiences from around the world. Their approach, as detailed in a recent discussion, focuses on understanding the complexities of sexual harms between doctors and formulating solutions that address the root causes of the problem. The book’s scope encompasses not only harassment perpetrated by senior doctors against trainees, but also harassment between peers, and the often-overlooked issue of doctors being both perpetrators and victims of abuse.
The Scope of the Problem: A Global Crisis
The scale of sexual harassment within the medical profession is alarming. Studies indicate that approximately one-third of junior doctors have experienced sexual harassment or abuse within their healthcare systems, regardless of geographic location. As reported by Clinician.scot, Professor Searle highlighted this statistic, emphasizing the widespread nature of the issue. This figure is corroborated by a recent survey of nearly 1000 medical students conducted by the British Medical Association (BMA), which revealed that two in five female respondents reported experiencing sexual harassment or sexual assault – including rape – during their medical school training and clinical placements. This harassment originated from both peers and senior doctors.
The vulnerability of medical trainees is particularly concerning. Research led by Professor Searle and colleagues at the University of Dundee earlier this year demonstrated that trainees are disproportionately susceptible to sexual abuse and often face significant obstacles when attempting to report incidents. These obstacles can include fear of retaliation, concerns about damaging their careers, and a lack of clear reporting mechanisms. The findings underscore the urgent need for systemic changes to protect those early in their medical careers.
Addressing Systemic Issues and Promoting Cultural Change
The anthology’s focus extends beyond simply documenting the problem; it seeks to identify and promote effective solutions. The co-editors are actively collaborating with organizations like NHS England and UK health and social care regulators to examine workplace interventions aimed at preventing sexual harassment. Professor Searle is also working with NHS Education for Scotland, which is developing new incident reporting mechanisms as part of a broader program to support healthcare staff. According to the University of Glasgow, these efforts are designed to create a more supportive and accountable environment for all healthcare professionals.
A key aspect of the approach outlined in the anthology is recognizing the complexity of “sexual harms between doctors.” It’s not simply a matter of individual perpetrators; it’s a problem deeply embedded in medical culture. Addressing this requires a multi-faceted strategy that tackles power dynamics, promotes respectful communication, and fosters a culture where reporting harassment is encouraged and supported. The book brings together global perspectives on these issues, offering a range of approaches that can be adapted to different healthcare settings.
The Role of Reporting Mechanisms and Support Systems
The development of robust and accessible reporting mechanisms is crucial for addressing sexual harassment in medicine. However, simply creating a system for reporting incidents is not enough. It’s equally key to ensure that those who report harassment are protected from retaliation and that their concerns are taken seriously. The anthology likely explores best practices for investigating allegations of harassment and providing support to both victims and those accused.
fostering a culture of bystander intervention is essential. Encouraging colleagues to speak up when they witness harassment can help to create a safer environment for everyone. Training programs that equip healthcare professionals with the skills to recognize and respond to harassment can also play a vital role in preventing incidents from occurring in the first place.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Continued Action
The publication of Sexual harassment between doctors: healing medical cultures around the world marks a significant step forward in addressing this critical issue. However, the operate is far from over. Continued research, advocacy, and systemic changes are needed to create a healthcare environment where all doctors can work and learn without fear of harassment or abuse.
The anthology’s release comes as healthcare systems worldwide are grappling with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated existing stressors and inequalities within the medical profession. Addressing sexual harassment is not only a matter of ethical responsibility but also a crucial step toward ensuring the well-being and resilience of the healthcare workforce. A safe and respectful work environment is essential for attracting and retaining talented doctors, ultimately benefiting patients and the healthcare system as a whole.
Professor Searle and her co-editors emphasize that while the problem is complex, it is not unsolvable. By fostering open dialogue, implementing effective prevention strategies, and holding perpetrators accountable, the medical community can create a culture of respect and safety for all. The next step in this ongoing process will be the dissemination of the anthology’s findings and the implementation of evidence-based interventions to address sexual harassment in healthcare settings globally.
To learn more about the research and the anthology, you can view a discussion with the co-editors here.
What steps do you think are most crucial in addressing sexual harassment in the medical field? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and please share this article to help raise awareness of this important issue.
