While banter is often acceptable, consider whether any joke you make might offend others. All military and civilian personnel, regardless of rank or grade, have a right to be treated with dignity. All military and civilian personnel also have a responsibility to do all they can to ensure that the working environment is free from all forms of bullying and harassment and that the dignity of others is respected.

In the UK, according to MOD policy, all personnel are expected to:

• ensure that their own conduct does not amount to bullying or harassment

• have the moral courage to challenge inappropriate behaviour

• be prepared to support those who experience or witness bullying or harassment and

report bullying or harassment against themselves or others

What about Hazing?

Hazing and interpersonal abuse significantly increases the risk of suicide in those who have an acute feeling of burdensomeness and inability to assimilate or belong.  Hazing is blatantly toxic and erodes the trust and confidence required of comrades in arms whose reliance upon each other ultimately contributes to their survival in the most austere conditions.  Lastly, blaming the victim of such a crime is morally corrupt and discounts the horrible act of abuse imposed upon those who are not in the position to defend themselves.

The UK MOD Bullying and Harassment Complaints Procedureswww.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/209888/JSP763_1_July_2013.pdf

http://smallwarsjournal.com/blog/hazing-is-simply-intolerable