On September 24, 2025, Assistant Attorney General Emma Sue Perman, representing the Attorney General and the Governor’s Task Force, delivered a formal address at Pohnpei’s inaugural Health Symposium, hosted by the Department of Health and Social Services, to launch the Pohnpei State Government Sexual Harassment Policy. This milestone underscores the government’s constitutional and statutory commitment to promoting the health and social well-being of its people.
The policy, officially endorsed by Governor Stevenson A. Joseph and Lt. Governor Herolyn S. Movick, in a memorandum to all Department, Office, and Agency heads, reflects their vision to champion gender equality and social inclusion. The memorandum stated, “As your Governor and Lt. Governor for Pohnpei State, we are committed to fostering a work environment that upholds the dignity, respect, and safety of all our valued employees. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that every individual who serves our government is treated with fairness and respect, free from any form of harassment or discrimination. Sexual harassment in any form is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated within the Pohnpei State Government.” The policy, enacted under Pohnpei Code Title 9 Chapter 8-117A, establishes essential safeguards and effective complaint mechanisms to protect all employees, regardless of classification, and ensures prompt and fair resolution of claims. The memorandum further urged, “We strongly endorse this policy and expect each and every employee to familiarize themselves with its provisions… to treat your colleagues with respect, and to report any violations promptly using the established procedures.”
Assistant AG Perman emphasized, “This policy is a foundational step toward positioning Pohnpei as a leader in social equity and justice.” As the state’s largest employer, Pohnpei aims to set a standard for fairness and respect within its institutions and across society. The policy aligns with Pohnpei’s cultural values of fairness, respect, and community well-being, as well as international standards, including those of the International Labor Organization.
The Secretariat of the Pacific Community, Human Rights and Social Development Division, provided expert review to ensure the policy aligns with domestic, regional, and international frameworks. “This policy strengthens our existing laws, code of ethics, and social values,” Perman noted, highlighting its role as a renewed commitment to addressing sexual harassment with utmost seriousness.
Developed through extensive collaboration, the policy reflects the dedication of stakeholders and partners, whose continued support was acknowledged with gratitude. The Governor and Lt. Governor called for collective action, stating, “By working together, we can maintain a safe and respectful workplace for everyone.” The responsibility now lies with Pohnpei’s leadership to ensure the policy’s effective implementation across all sectors, advancing a gender-equitable and socially inclusive society.
To view the full policy, click the link: https://pohnpeipublicinfo.blogspot.com/.../policies...
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