As organizations push for a return-to-office (RTO) environment, they face numerous challenges, from logistical concerns to employee resistance. However, one significant issue often overlooked is the potential increase in sexual harassment incidents associated with in-person work. Advocates for RTO need to seriously consider this reality, as current measures from companies, government agencies, and nonprofits appear insufficient to address this critical problem.

The evidence linking in-person work environments with higher instances of sexual harassment is compelling. A 19th News/SurveyMonkey poll revealed that employees working in person are more than twice as likely to experience sexual harassment compared to those working remotely. Specifically, 12% of women working in person reported harassment, in contrast to only 5% of remote workers. These statistics underscore the protective barrier that remote work can offer, particularly for women and marginalized groups who are disproportionately affected by workplace harassment.

The poll further highlights disparities across various demographics. Nonbinary workers, for instance, reported a significant decrease in harassment incidents during remote work periods, with 20% experiencing harassment in the past three years, compared to 30% pre-pandemic. For workers under the age of 35, 8% of remote workers reported harassment, versus 14% of those working in person. These figures suggest that remote work environments provide a degree of protection that in-person work cannot match.

Sexual harassment in the workplace often stems from power imbalances, where those in higher positions leverage........

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