Bystander Awareness Campaign

What is Bystander Intervention?
Bystander intervention refers to the actions taken by individuals who witness or become aware of incidents of violence, harassment, or other unacceptable behavior in the workplace. It is a voluntary act, but one that can have a powerful impact by:
• Preventing the escalation of harmful behavior
• Supporting the person affected
• Sending a strong message that such behavior is not tolerated.
Why It Matters
We emphasizes that bystander intervention is a cornerstone of a culture of respect and accountability. It empowers employees at all levels to take ownership of workplace culture, rather than leaving responsibility solely to HR or leadership.
Here are practical examples of what people can do:
Diffuse the situation to reduce the danger
• Make a light-hearted comment to the perpetrator, either in public or private to show your disapproval
• Distract the perpetrator
• Remove the affected worker from the situation
Support the affected worker.
• Express your approval of the affected worker
• Ask if they are ok
• Offer to help them access support services or to report the matter
Speak up and let the perpetrator know why you think their behaviour is wrong
• Calmly disagree with the conduct
• Publicly declare the conduct to be wrong or unacceptable
• Explain to the perpetrator (if safe to do so) why it’s important to stop the behaviour
Report the behaviour or find someone who can help.
• Ask someone to help with the immediate danger
• Ask someone to help with the reporting
• Report the incidents to the company’s appointed contact person or hotline
• IFC emphasizes that the goal is to stop harm, avoid escalation, and reinforce a culture of respect — not to confront aggressively or put oneself at risk.