Did you know that almost half of all women say they sometimes feel unsafe? Most of the time, this feeling arises in their own neighbourhood or in the city centre. This is reflected in the statistics from Statline (2017). But where does this feeling come from?
Violence against women
Although women are generally less likely to be involved in violent crimes, they are certainly twice as likely to be victims of sexual offences. Women are also more likely to be victims of domestic violence. This is reported by Statistics Netherlands (CBS) in the Emancipation Monitor 2018. According to this report, around 60% of the perpetrators are known to the police, the majority of whom are local residents.
Teasing girls, asking for kisses
According to the European Institute for Gender Equality Even in 2019, gender roles still play a major part in violence and harassment against women. For generations, we have been perpetuating the same gender stereotypes worldwide, which can be extremely harmful. Women often do not dare to set clear boundaries for fear of confrontation, or they believe they stand no chance against an aggressive person.
Sexual Violence Centre reports that one in eight women has been raped at some point in her life. Between the ages of 12 and 24, the risk of rape is at least four times higher. Rape can have very serious consequences for the victim. For example, 7% become pregnant, and 45% of victims develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Without appropriate intervention following sexual violence, two-thirdse of the victims have again been subjected to sexual violence.
In 2018, there were 2,400 cases of rape and sexual assault reported. That is an average of 6 reports per day. When we look at all reported sexual offences (indecent assault, sexual abuse of a minor, sexual abuse involving abuse of authority, pornography and others), we arrive at a figure of around 24 reports per day.
A positive outlook
Between 2007 and 2017, there was a significant decline There has been a decline in the number of violent offences against women. In particular, cases of assault and threats have become less common. Sexual violence has, in recent years, slightly increased. Fortunately, there is a growing number of organisations committed to gender equality, and thus also to combating violence against women. For example, the Rutgers Centre for Sexuality is dedicated to sexual health and has no fewer than 6 campaigns who are committed to sexual safety.
What can you do?
The most important thing is that we show respect for one another at all times and demonstrate understanding for other people’s situations. Sometimes people don’t dare to set their boundaries. The campaign “Are you all right?” provides tips on what to do if you suspect that someone around you is being harassed and doesn’t dare to intervene themselves. If we look out for one another, we can prevent many unpleasant situations.
If you find yourself in a difficult situation, it is important to trust your instincts and to know that you are not overreacting. Your boundaries are your boundaries, and they must be respected at all times. If this does not happen, it is important to know that everyone has the strength to get yourself out of a difficult situation as quickly as possible, even if you don’t believe it yourself. There are many self-defence techniques that can be learnt which require very little strength.
Learn how to defend yourself with the Women Only Krav Maga course
A course for women, run by women. Taus Gym offers a 9-week course in which women can learn effective self-defence techniques. These techniques are based on realistic, threatening situations that women may face. All techniques draw on your instincts and have one goal: to get to safety as quickly as possible. We also focus on preventing confrontation. We do this, amongst other things, by teaching women how to use their voice and body language to make their boundaries clear. Ultimately, these skills will prove useful not only if you’re being harassed, but also in everyday life. Did you know that many cases of burnout can be prevented if you learn to recognise your own boundaries and have the courage to set them in good time?
Are you a woman who wants to feel prepared when out and about? Looking for a safe environment where you can work on your self-defence skills? Then sign up now for the Women-Only Krav Maga Course via this link. The 9-week course (Every Monday from 21 October to 16 December, between 7.15 pm and 8.30 pm) will be taught mainly by a female trainer. If you’re still unsure, you’re welcome to attend the taster lesson at Monday 14 October, from 7.15 pm to 8.30 pm. Register via this link.
By: Nomi van Dun