Toolkit launched to address sexual harassment in public spaces
Sexual health expertise centre Sensoa has created a toolbox to help local governments in Flanders tackle sexual harassment in public spaces.
The free online kit offers practical advice on measures such as smart lighting in strategic places, the placement of street furniture and the creation of safe spaces during events.
“Local governments can have a real impact on reducing sexual street harassment. After all, no one knows the city or town better and can pinpoint the pain points,” Sensoa said in a press release.
Research in 2021 by children’s rights NGO Plan International Belgium shows that 91 per cent of girls and 28 per cent of boys have experienced sexual harassment in public.
"Together we can reclaim public space and make it safe for everyone"
Previously, Sensoa developed a guide on how to respond to transgressive behaviour, at work or at sports clubs. The centre now wants to embed the approach to street harassment in local policy.
Flemish minister of Welfare Caroline Gennez of Vooruit supports the project. “With targeted actions, support from the Flemish government – and if we pay a little more attention to each other – together we can reclaim public space and make it safe for everyone,” she said.
#FlandersNewsService | A campaign to end street harassment in Brussels, December 2023 © BELGA PHOTO JAMES ARTHUR GEKIERE
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