Witnessing sexual violence is a common experience — though it is rarely named as such. Research by the STER foundation shows that 87.6% of women in Poland have experienced sexual harassment. An Ipsos survey for L'Oréal Paris (2022) indicates that 84% of women have experienced harassment in public spaces.
What is sexual violence in public spaces?
Sexual violence is any unwanted behaviour of a sexual or gender-based nature that violates a person's dignity. It is often normalised, treated as a „joke” or a „compliment”.
Forms of violence
- Non-verbal: staring, gestures, exhibitionism, unwanted photographing
- Verbal: comments about someone's body, catcalling, propositions, pressure
- Physical: blocking someone's way, touching, invading personal space, assault
How to respond — what NOT to do
Don't confront the perpetrator aggressively if it could endanger safety. Don't film and post videos online. Don't force the victim to talk or to report to the police.
Indirect intervention — safe and effective
When you're not sure whether you're witnessing violence — use indirect intervention. These are discreet actions that interrupt the situation without direct confrontation.
- Ask an unrelated question (e.g. „Excuse me, what time is it?”)
- Sit down next to the victim
- Create a distraction
- Invite the victim to join your group
- Offer to walk or drive them somewhere
When the perpetrator is known — at work, in the family, at school
Express clear objection to the behaviour. Support the victim. Identify other witnesses. Report it through the organisation's procedures or to the National Labour Inspectorate.
By reporting violence, you don't ruin anyone's life — perpetrators ruin it through their own actions. Silence protects the perpetrator, not the victim.
Take care of yourself too — for supporters
- Acknowledge your emotions — witnessing this is hard
- Allow yourself a break
- Seek peer support
- Set boundaries for your support
- Suggest professional help to the victim