Risk factors for the occurrence of sexual misconduct during archaeological and anthropological fieldwork

Abstract

Fieldwork is crucial to advancing knowledge in archaeology and anthropology, but previous works suggests that between 64-68% of respondents experience sexual misconduct during fieldwork. Going forward, fieldwork must be made safe and inclusive. To achieve this, we must understand why sexual misconduct takes place during fieldwork. We surveyed an international sample of archaeologists and anthropologists (n=300) about their most recent fieldwork experience. We examine evidence for risk factors predicting sexual misconduct on field sites, and our findings suggest that length of fieldwork, presence and communication of policies and protocols, and the gender and sexuality of the individual, are all significant. In particular, we find evidence for increased risk to non-male and non-heterosexual individuals. We also gathered qualitative evidence from our respondents, who reported that in some cases, they were discouraged from reporting and faced retaliation, they were dissatisfied with the handling of complaints, and field site policies and protocols were not consistently or effectively implemented. Fieldwork can be a high-risk environment for marginalized individuals to experience sexual misconduct, and when clear policies and procedures are lacking, it can also be a low-risk environment for perpetrators in terms of consequences. To make fieldwork a safe environment for all, policies and protocols that mitigate the risk of sexual misconduct must be consistently implemented, and properly communicated.