MORAL HARASSMENT IN THE BRAZILIAN PUBLIC SERVICE: LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INSTRUMENTS FOR PREVENTION, INVESTIGATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

Abstract

This article analyzes the legal and administrative instruments aimed at preventing, investigating and holding accountable moral harassment practices in the Brazilian public service. The study is based on the understanding that moral harassment constitutes an abusive practice capable of violating human dignity, compromising public servants’ health and affecting the efficiency of Public Administration itself. The research problem consists of examining to what extent the existing mechanisms are sufficient to prevent and confront moral harassment within the public sector. The research adopts a qualitative approach, using bibliographical and documentary methodology based on the analysis of legal doctrine, legislation, institutional regulations and case law. The study examines the concept and forms of moral harassment, the constitutional and administrative foundations for the protection of public servants, and the institutional mechanisms designed to prevent and confront workplace violence. It concludes that, although the Brazilian legal system provides relevant mechanisms of accountability and protection, the effective fight against moral harassment still depends on the strengthening of preventive policies, institutional training, reliable reporting channels and the development of an administrative culture grounded in respect, civility and the protection of public servants’ psychosocial integrity.