To path indicator Subpages of “SchuDS“ To navigation To quick access To footer with other services
To content
Logo Stabsstelle Chancengleichheit, Familie und Vielfalt
Colorful bubbles appear in small and large colors. © Canva

Sexualized violence

What is sexualized violence?

The term sexualized violence refers to all unwanted acts of a sexual nature. These may include words, gestures, text or image messages, or physical contact. Perpetrators are often not motivated by sexual desire but by the intention to exercise or abuse power. In around 80% of cases, those affected know the perpetrators — for example, friends, colleagues, teachers, trainers, or family members.

Sexualized violence can affect anyone, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, origin, or clothing. What always matters is the perspective of the affected person — not whether the perpetrator claims to have had no harmful intent. Responsibility always lies with those who commit any of the following forms of sexualized violence.

What forms of sexualized violence are there?

  • Verbal or non‑verbal: obscene or sexist remarks (e.g., catcalling)
  • Non‑verbal: intrusive or unpleasant gestures or looks at breasts, buttocks, or genitals; exhibitionist acts
  • Digital: unwanted sending or sharing of images or videos with sexual content (e.g., unsolicited explicit images, upskirting)
  • Emotional: blackmailing with images, videos, or actions
  • Physical: unwanted touching of breasts, buttocks, or genitals; rape

 

Please note: Not every form of sexualized violence is punishable under §§ 177 ff. of the German Criminal Code.

Information on counseling

Have you experienced or witnessed sexualized violence and are unsure what to do? Feel free to contact us. Together we will clarify your questions and consider possible next steps. If you are thinking about filing a criminal complaint, please read the information in the next drop‑down section.

Are you unsure whether you have been affected, or whether what you experienced or witnessed was discrimination or sexualized violence? Trust your instincts — unpleasant feelings often have a reason. In a confidential conversation, you can tell us about your experiences and/or observations, and we can discuss possible next steps together.

It may be helpful to make notes in advance. These can include a memory log with information about the time, place, people involved, perpetrators, and witnesses. You can find an example of a memory log here.

Important: In an emergency, contact the police or emergency services immediately.

The police have a duty to prosecute. This means they must begin their investigation as soon as they are notified. Victims of sexual assault who do not wish to inform the police immediately have the option of having evidence collected anonymously. More information can be found in the drop‑down section below.

Are you considering reporting a sexual assault to the police? Please proceed as follows:

  • File the report before a counseling session, or
  • Create a memory log (voice recording, video, or written notes) including the date and time. The document should contain all important information known to you at that moment. You may bring the memory log to the counseling session and/or keep it safely for your records. You can find an example of a memory log here.

Background: In criminal proceedings, counseling prior to filing a complaint may — unfortunately — have a negative impact on the investigation. As counselors, we take our responsibility seriously and point this out as a precaution. Please contact us if you have any questions so that we can help alleviate any concerns.

Below you will find further information on anonymous evidence collection (ASS).

Victims of sexual assault who do not wish to inform the police immediately have the option of having evidence secured anonymously. Traces and possible evidence of an act of violence are collected and documented in a way that is admissible in court. The affected person can file a criminal complaint at a later time without pressure. The evidence is stored for several years.

Further information on regional services for anonymous evidence collection can be found here:   //www.opferschutzportal.nrw/formen-von-gewalt/anonyme-spurensicherung-ass

The ASS in Dortmund is currently being established (as of 01/2026).

Our counseling services are available to all members and affiliates of TU Dortmund University: students, employees, and professors from all departments and units. In addition, anyone who is on campus with the university’s authorization may contact us. Anyone who has experienced or witnessed discrimination or sexualized violence by members of TU Dortmund University may also reach out to us.

Depending on your preferences, counseling can take place by telephone, via Zoom, or in person in our counseling room. Counseling is always free of charge, voluntary, confidential, and — if you wish — anonymous.

Counseling can take many forms. Sometimes it is helpful simply to talk about what you have experienced or witnessed. This may also lead to further options for action, which we can explore and support together.

Important: You are at the center of the counseling process. No steps will be taken without your knowledge and/or consent.

Would you like to know whether there are risks of sexualized violence in your area and how these can be reduced? We would be happy to advise you on this as well.