What do we know about sexual violence among young tourists?
The tourist destinations of Southern Europe are enticing for young people primarily due to the favorable climate and vibrant nightlife they offer.
Based on data from approximately 6,834 respondents, British and German tourists visiting cities in Portugal (Faro), Spain (Palma de Mallorca), Italy (Venice), Greece (Heraklion, Crete), and Cyprus (Larnaca) cited two main reasons for choosing their destinations: 59% for the pleasant climate and 52% for the nightlife.
However, the same study revealed that nightlife wasn’t just associated with substance abuse among young holidaymakers but also with the likelihood of experiencing sexual harassment or non-consensual sex.
Specifically, 9% of respondents reported experiencing sexual harassment during their holidays (7% men, 10% women), with percentages rising to around 15% in Crete and Majorca. Additionally, 1.5% of respondents admitted to engaging in non-consensual sex.
What contributes to these issues? Researchers argue that it’s not the nightlife itself that fosters these problems but rather instances of mismanagement, particularly the widespread availability of cheap alcohol and the perception of tolerance towards extreme behavior, including sexual misconduct. The portrayal of tourist destinations as places where “anything goes” without consequences for potentially harmful or inappropriate behaviors during holidays encourages sexual violence.
It’s crucial to develop and implement legislative and regulatory policies establishing health and safety standards. Moreover, all members of the local population must unequivocally convey that inappropriate behaviors, such as sexual violence, are neither desired nor tolerated.
Calafat A, Hughes K, Blay N et al. (2013) Sexual harassment among young tourists visiting Mediterranean resorts. Arch Sex Behav 42:603-613.
