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Sexualized violence

What is sexualized violence?

The term "sexualized violence" is a collective term for all unwanted acts of a sexual nature. This includes, for example, words, gestures, text/image messages or touching. Perpetrators are not necessarily interested in satisfying sexual needs, but primarily in exercising or abusing power. In 80% of cases, those affected already know the perpetrators, as they are friends, work colleagues, teachers, trainers or family members.

Sexualized violence can affect anyone, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, origin or clothing. What is always important is the perspective of the person affected, not the lack of intent on the part of the perpetrator! The blame always lies with those who commit one of the following forms of sexualized violence.

What forms of sexualized violence are there?

  • Verbal or non-verbal: obscene, sexist words (e.g. catcalling)
  • Non-verbal: intrusive and unpleasant gestures and glances at breasts, buttocks or genitals, exhibitionist acts
  • Digital: unwanted sending/sharing of images/videos with sexual content (e.g. dickpicks, upskirting)
  • Emotional: blackmailing of 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 don't know what to do? Then get in touch with us. Together we will clarify questions and consider how to proceed. If you are considering filing a criminal complaint, please read the information in the next drop-down menu.

Are you unsure whether you have been affected or whether what you have experienced or observed was discrimination or sexualized violence? Listen to your gut feeling. Unpleasant feelings often have a reason. In a confidential conversation, you can tell us about your experiences and/or observations and we can discuss together what next steps can be taken.

It can 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: Contact the police or emergency services in an emergency!

The police have a duty to prosecute. This means that the police must start their investigation as soon as they are called. Victims of a sexual assault who do not wish to inform the police immediately have the option of having evidence collected anonymously. More information on this can be found in the next but one drop-down menu.

Are you thinking about reporting a sexual assault to the police? Then please proceed as follows:

  • Make the report before a counseling session or
  • create a memory log in the form of a voice recording/video/written form , stating the date and time. The document should contain all important information known to you at the time. The memory log can be brought to the consultation and/or kept safely for your records. You can find an example of a memorial record here.

Background: In the context of criminal proceedings, it is possible that counseling prior to a criminal charge may (unfortunately) have a negative impact on criminal proceedings. As counselors, we take a responsible approach to our role and point this out as a precaution. Please contact us if you have any questions so that we can allay any fears you may have.

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

Victims of a 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 thus secured and documented in a court of law. The person affected can file a criminal complaint at a later date without any pressure. The traces are kept for several years. You can find further information on regional offers for anonymous evidence recovery here:  //www.opferschutzportal.nrw/formen-von-gewalt/anonyme-spurensicherung-ass

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

 

Our counseling service is aimed at all members and affiliates of TU Dortmund University: students, employees, professors from all departments and units of TU Dortmund University. In addition, anyone who is on campus in consultation with the university can also contact us. Anyone who has experienced or witnessed discrimination or sexualized violence by members of TU Dortmund University can also contact us.

Depending on your wishes, counseling can take place by telephone, via Zoom or on site in our counseling room. Counseling is always free, voluntary, confidential and, if you wish, anonymous. Counseling can be very versatile. Sometimes it helps just to talk about what you have experienced (or observed). This can also lead to the need for further options for action, which we can work out and support together.

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

Do you want to know whether there are risks of sexualized violence in your area and how these can be reduced? Then we would also be happy to advise you!