About 78 % of students have experienced some form of sexual harassment. For various reasons it is often difficult to actively defend yourself – the sexual assault often surprises and paralyses the victim. Moreover, if the victim is in a subordinate or dependent position (e.g. at an exam), she or he fears to protest. Another possible obstacle may be the victim’s concern of being labelled as “over-sensitive”.
If it happens that you have been a victim of sexual harassment and you wish to tackle the situation:
If possible, say NO. It is often difficult to express your disagreement, especially if there is a power imbalance. Therefore, if you do not say no, it cannot be automatically understood as a consent. It is useful to let the other person know that your boundaries have been transgressed, but if you cannot do it, do not blame yourself. It is not your duty to defend yourself; it is everyone’s duty not to commit sexual misconduct.
Gather evidence. Keep the correspondence with the perpetrator, if any. Keeping evidence can be crucial if you decide to report the situation or seek legal advice.
Your feelings are legitimate. Everyone has different boundaries. What is considered a joke by someone may be unpleasant or hurting for someone else. It is you who sets the boundaries of what you feel comfortable with.
You are not alone in this. Sexual harassment represents an extreme mental load for its victim. There are a lot of people at the university and elsewhere who will help you to deal with the experience. You can turn to someone close to you or seek professional help.
It is not your fault. When a person makes humiliating or sexist comments, improper proposals or physical assaults, it is never your fault. The responsibility always lies with the instigator.
It is not your responsibility to report the case. The decision whether or not to report the situation is entirely up to you. Everyone has the right to choose how they want to handle their experience, and no one can force you to do something you are uncomfortable with. The important thing is that you feel safe and can choose the path that suits you best.
This text was created in collaboration with the Konsent association, which exposes myths about sex and sexual violence. All used text sources can be found below or here.
The BSAFE Project’s general objective is to prevent all forms of gender-based violence by tackling its root causes and to protect and support the victims of GBV.