US base on Antarctica to be investigated over sexual violence

Investigation Launched into Sexual Violence at McMurdo Station

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) overseeing the National Science Foundation (NSF) is dispatching investigators to Antarctica’s McMurdo Station following concerns about the prevalence of sexual violence at the U.S. research base.

Meanwhile, the NSF, a federal agency, has announced its own efforts to address this “pervasive problem.” It has appointed Renée Ferranti as a special assistant to the NSF director, focusing on sexual assault and harassment prevention and response.

AP Investigation Reveals Pattern of Harassment and Assault

In August, an Associated Press (AP) investigation uncovered a pattern of women at McMurdo Station who reported that their claims of harassment or assault were downplayed by their employers, putting them and others at further risk.

Internal communications obtained by the AP indicated that the NSF OIG would conduct a site visit from Monday through November 17 to investigate these allegations.

Lisa Vonder Haar, the chief of staff for the OIG, confirmed the visit and stated, “We are in the process of expanding our investigative mission to include the investigation of criminal violations that occur in Antarctica. Such violations include aggravated sexual abuse, sexual abuse, abusive sexual contact, and stalking.”

Vonder Haar also mentioned that special agents have been remotely responding to complaints from workers in Antarctica since July and that they plan to have a presence on the ice during future summers.

Addressing Harassment and Assault

The AP investigation highlighted the lack of support many women felt from those in charge of the Antarctic program. Some women even resorted to carrying hammers for protection, while others were forced to work alongside their alleged harassers.

In one case, a woman who reported being sexually assaulted was fired two months later. Another woman’s allegations of rape were downgraded to harassment by her superiors.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

1. Goal 5: Gender Equality – The prevalence of sexual violence at McMurdo Station underscores the urgent need to address gender inequality and ensure the safety and well-being of women in all environments.
2. Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – The NSF’s decision to investigate criminal violations and appoint a special assistant demonstrates a commitment to promoting justice and creating a safe working environment.

Efforts to Prevent Harassment and Assault

A 2022 NSF report revealed that 59% of women at McMurdo Station reported experiencing harassment or assault, with alcohol often playing a role in these incidents.

In October, the NSF decided to stop serving alcohol at McMurdo Station’s bars, although workers can still purchase a weekly alcohol ration from the station store. The NSF clarified that this change was related to morale and welfare, rather than specifically targeting sexual harassment or assault prevention.

NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment of Renée Ferranti, who brings over 25 years of experience in sexual assault prevention. He stated, “Addressing this pervasive problem remains a top priority for me and the agency, and with Renée’s expertise, we will continue to adapt and further accelerate our efforts to address the evolving landscape of sexual assault prevention and response.”

Ferranti herself expressed her hope to make a meaningful impact in advancing the NSF’s progress in addressing sexual violence.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. 
   

   SDG 5: Gender Equality

   • Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation.
   • Indicator: Percentage of women who have experienced harassment or assault in Antarctica (mentioned in the article).

2. 
   

   SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

   • Target 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere.
   • Indicator: Number of investigations conducted by the NSF Office of Inspector General regarding criminal violations, including sexual abuse and stalking (mentioned in the article).

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: federaltimes.com

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