A recent study conducted in the Swiss Army reveals alarming rates of discrimination and sexual violence among service members, with 50% of respondents reporting discrimination and 40% experiencing sexualized violence. Mahidé Aslan from the Army’s Women and Diversity unit highlights the prevalence of these issues across all genders and ranks, noting that lower ranks are often where incidents occur. A cultural shift is deemed necessary to encourage reporting and create an inclusive environment for all service members.
For the first time, the military has documented the occurrence and frequency of discrimination and sexualized violence within its ranks. The findings are shocking: half of the surveyed military personnel report having experienced discrimination, while 40% have encountered sexualized violence. Mahidé Aslan from the Swiss Army’s Women and Diversity Office contributed to the study.
SRF News: What was your reaction when you first saw the study’s figures?
Mahidé Aslan: I was taken aback by the high number of incidents and that these affect all genders and levels of the hierarchy.
Is there a correlation between rank and whether someone becomes an aggressor?
Interestingly, most incidents occur predominantly among lower ranks, with victims typically being soldiers. Although there are incidents among non-commissioned officers and commissioned officers, the frequency decreases with rank.
Moreover, incidents are more likely to be reported when higher ranks are involved. Conversely, at lower ranks, there is often less recognition that such behavior is unacceptable.
Non-commissioned female officers tend to be aggressors more frequently. Why is that?
A certain trivialization of the culture of abuse has been noted in our surveys; people perceive these actions as not too serious and part of the norm. When a woman experiences this as a soldier, she may continue such behavior once in a higher position.
Women pursuing a military career feel compelled to perform at a high level and prove their competence. Traditionally, this has led to a denial of vulnerability and a need to demonstrate resilience and the ability to cope.
Therefore, the primary reason for the high incidence of abuse is the military culture as it currently exists. Do we have a problem here?
The key challenge is ensuring everyone has a voice and feels empowered to speak out about incidents. Reporting discrimination must become an integral part of the organizational culture, where anyone who witnesses such an event reports it rather than remaining silent due to fear of negative repercussions. The military needs to cultivate an environment where individuals can take action, set boundaries, and advocate for change.
Does this mean a cultural shift is necessary, from the bottom up and top down?
Exactly. This cultural transformation began in 2020 with the army’s vision. Humanity was placed at the forefront, introducing a diversity strategy along with an action plan that outlines aspects of the organizational culture. This new culture must be nurtured from below while being guided from above.
It’s important to recognize that the military is historically a male-dominated organization, built by men for men. In 2024, it’s not about questioning the army’s history, but acknowledging that women are now part of the military landscape. The institution must evolve into a military service that welcomes everyone capable and willing to serve, as the old behavior patterns are insufficient for the future, necessitating a cultural shift.
Interview conducted by Simone Hulliger.