Reflecting on different approaches to DBSH

The consequences of different approaches to allegations of DBSH

In 2015, allegations were made public that our College had a culture of bullying and harassment. There was a media frenzy. It was politically awkward and had the potential to do reputational damage to our institution. RACS responded quickly, acknowledging the concerns, and set up an independent Expert Advisory Group (EAG) to advise the College. The EAG made several recommendations, which were accepted and implemented by our College. Since then, our College has altered many of its processes and invested huge resources into reducing discrimination, bullying and sexual harassment (DBSH). We believe the culture is changing for the better, and it has now become safer and easier for surgeons (Trainees, Specialist International Medical Graduates and Fellows) to report their experiences, concerns, seek advice, or to make a complaint. In 2021, allegations were made public that the Liberal Party in Australia had a culture of bullying and harassment. Allegations of a culture of harassment and disrespect for women were denied. One allegation by a staffer proceeded to court. Then a separate allegation surfaced, and a cabinet minister eventually resigned from their ministry. Internal investigations found no wrongdoing in the latter case. The party lost the general election, perhaps in part because of the perceived party culture. No systematic changes seem to have occurred and it is questionable how safe it is for anyone to speak up against DBSH for fear of denigration. In 2022, allegations were made public that the parliamentary Labour Party in Aotearoa New Zealand had a culture of bullying and harassment. This had the potential to do reputational damage to the party, and to the parliamentary process more widely. The Labour party denied the allegations and openly challenged the complainant. Eventually, the member of parliament who had raised the concerns was relieved of their role within the party and a few months later resigned. It seems unlikely that the culture will change significantly, but in the shorter term the issue has disappeared from public scrutiny. From all accounts, it has now become less safe for members of parliament to report their experiences, concerns or to make a complaint about DBSH for fear of denigration and excommunication. RACS has survived and remains respected by the public.

Professor Spencer Beasley RACS Surgical Advisor