How Can We Stop Sexual Harassment in Night Clubs?

By Jana Roumie

Sexual harassment in night clubs, pubs and bars is a very common and serious issue facing young women across the world, according to a recent NUS report. For the past decade, the nightlife industry has been growing rapidly, and with this growth, comes many concerns. A recent survey from Sexual Health Charity, Brook, found that more than half of British, female students have experienced unwanted sexual activity, including catcalling, inappropriate touching and stalking, during their university experiences. Unfortunately, individuals carrying out aggressive and forceful acts have, worryingly, become the norm for young girls on a night out. ZARE took to the streets of London, to ask individuals what they felt should be done to prevent the sexual harassment of women during night-life. 

Meera, 23, Student 

“I’m a student who enjoys clubbing and this issue is really personal to me. I’ve had many serious incidents when it comes to this topic and I honestly think the only way we can change this is by educating the public. We need to be more aware of this problem and make sure that we speak out when we see it happening to other people, even if they’re just strangers. As clubbing becomes more and more popular this issue becomes even more common, it happens to me almost every time I go out to a club. We need to start by spreading as much awareness and information as possible.”  

Anna, 30, Receptionist

 “As a receptionist at a hotel, I can say with full confidence that this is not an issue that just takes place in clubs, it is a social and cultural issue that happens all around us every day. I think it’s much more common in clubs, however, because people just expect it and accept it. I rarely go clubbing, but when I do go, I know for a fact that some drunk guy is probably going to be inappropriate and touch me. No matter where you go it’s bound to happen. We can only stop it by not accepting it anymore; we have to constantly speak out and stop it even if it’s the smallest thing.”  

Stefani, 22, Student 

“I don’t think there’s a way to stop it completely right now, but I think we can reduce the amount it happens by changing and adding some rules and regulations. Firstly, I think all major clubs should be 21 plus and I think there should be a limit to the amount of alcohol consumption allowed in clubs. If you see someone being harassed, then either interfere yourself or tell a staff member - don’t just walk away. Adding extra security and educating staff members to be as involved as possible will also lower the chances of it happening and make people feel more secure and have a better time.” 

Karen, 25, Freelance Designer 

“It’s really depressing to see how common this sort of thing is becoming. We really need to think about how we as individuals can challenge immoral behaviours that we see on a night out. We must take this outside of the context that ‘it’s about alcohol’ or ‘it’s about drugs’ and locate it very much as a choice that some people are making. Even though alcohol and drugs do lower people's inhibitions, it’s not like sexual harassment or assault would end if we banned drugs and alcohol tomorrow. That’s why we need to change the environment and make clubs a safer and more comfortable place for everyone.”  

Joudi, 27, Marketing Director

"The creepy guys and harassers suck but people go out because they want to have fun and enjoy their night out, so I never let them get to me and ruin my night. I don't think girls should change the way they dress or try to be extra safe when they go out because at the end of the day it's not you, it's him and, unfortunately, nothing you can wear, say or do will change that. So, rather than focusing on that, we should look for ways we can move forward and solve this problem at its core."