Sexual Violence in Social Settings

Sexual violence in any setting isn’t about sexual gratification, it’s about entitlement – people who use sexual violence do so because they feel entitled to sex. 

Sexual violence can occur in many social spaces, including university campuses, music festivals, nightclubs, raves, private parties and at informal hangs – this toolkit will look at case studies of parties and dating apps. Sexual violence can occur in any social settings, including when friends are present, or with only strangers around.  

In social contexts, people can feel they are no longer accountable to anybody because they might not ever see these people again (such as at large parties, sex on premises venues, etc.), or because the setting is one where sex is more present or public (such as beats, kink events, etc). People can also be less likely to intervene in these spaces because they’re scared of confronting someone, especially in front of other people.  

Social spaces are at their strongest when we place strong value on caring for one another, respect, and accountability. Sexual violence thrives in secrecy, so by talking about it, and what behaviours are acceptable, and not acceptable, we can help to keep one another safe. Our communities deserve safety and respect.

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