There is a direct link between unhealthy command climates and mission failure. The military's problem with sexual harassment and sexual assault is proof that too many small units have unhealthy command climates. This report addresses accountability, climate and culture, prevention, and support and care of victims. These pillars are equally important--and therefore interdependent--in stopping sexual harassment and sexual assault in the military. Each must receive constant attention by commanders and enlisted leaders. Focusing on these issues cannot be seen by leaders as a distraction from the warfighting mission; indeed, if the military is to succeed in that mission, it cannot fail to address sexual harassment and sexual assault. Leaders have many responsibilities that demand their attention, but they cannot take days off from stopping the degradation of some Service members by others.

Foreword. -- Overview. -- Common themes. -- Points of strength that show promise for the future. -- Key recommendations. -- Acknowledgements. -- Dedication. -- Introduction. -- Current state. -- Efforts-to-date. -- Section I: IRC mission, people, and process. -- Approach. -- Section II: Statement of the problem. -- 1. Broken trust. -- 2. The military justice system is not equipped to properly respond to special victim crimes. -- 3. Leadership is paramount. -- 4. Sexual harassment and sexual assault exist on a continuum of harm. -- 5. Victims bear a heavy burden. -- 6. Critical deficiencies in the workforce. -- 7. Outdated gender & social norms persist across the force. -- 8. Little is known about perpetration. -- Section III: Recommendations. -- Cross-cutting recommendations. -- Recommendations by line of effort. -- Section IV: Way forward. -- Congressional oversight. -- Timeline & implementation. -- Areas for further study. -- Final thoughts. -- Appendices.