US Navy, Marine Corps halt anonymous harassment, discrimination complaints

Published Aug 10, 06:39 PM UTC

The U.S. Navy and Marine Corps have announced they will no longer process anonymous reports of harassment and discrimination as part of Military Equal Opportunity (MEO) complaints, following a directive from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The policy change, detailed in a Navy-wide message, mirrors similar moves by the Army and Air Force. Hegseth had argued that anonymous reporting programs were 'weaponized' by individuals acting in bad faith. Service members can still file anonymous reports for sexual assault, hazing, and bullying pending further guidance. A new confidential reporting option allows sailors and Marines to receive support services without triggering an investigation, though confidentiality may be breached in cases of imminent harm or future crime. The services will also offer a conflict resolution process before formal inquiries. The Pentagon confirmed the changes comply with a June 18 memo but declined to release it.