Sexual violence is often hidden. It can involve mental and physical violence, sexual violence is not always physical coercion. Distorted use of power can lead one to submit to sex to conform to a partner. There can also be enjoyable sex in a relationship where there is sexual abuse.
These actions are considered as sexual violence:
Sexual harassment is touching or getting attention that doesn’t feel good and appropriate.
Comments or jokes of a sexual nature that cause discomfort. Humiliating, calling names and comparing another to, e.g., former partners.
Unwanted touching of sexual organs can be considered a crime, or being forced to touch another person's sexual organs.
Violation of one's sexual boundaries, e.g. by pressuring or forcing others to do unwanted sexual acts. Threatening to rape or commit violent sex or sexual acts.
Sex should always be based on mutual consent. Having or attempting to have sex with someone without their consent is considered rape.
- Agreeing to sex for fear of sanctions or to avoid something that might result in refusal.
- Forcing unprotected sex.
- Refusal to use contraception.
- Forced abortion or preventing abortion.
- Being obliged to watch or participate in films, photographs, or other pornographic performances.
- Forcing someone to have sex with other people.
- Forcing someone into prostitution.
- Spreading sexual pictures or other visual material without consent.
- Forced marriage or cohabitation.
- Virginity testing.