Sexual harassment, discrimination and violence
Sexual harassment, discrimination and violence
Bielefeld University policy clearly states no.
Sexualised harassment, discrimination and violence occurs verbally, non-verbally and through physical attacks. It extends to the internet and often has far-reaching negative consequences for those affected.
All sexualised behaviour and actions that are unwanted and are experienced as insulting, intimidating, hostile, humiliating and degrading are considered sexualised harassment, discrimination and violence under the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG ). In its policy against sexualised harassment, discrimination and violence , Bielefeld University formulated the clear prohibition of sexualised discrimination and violence within the university and in non-university business dealings at an early stage. The policy emphasises the value of trusting cooperation and the clear responsibility of the university: it has a duty to prevent abuse of power and to protect its employees and students from sexualised discrimination and violence in the best possible way. All members of the university should be able to realise their own study, career and life aspirations in an atmosphere that is as free from discrimination and sexism as possible. Counselling services offer support to affected students and employees. In accordance with the legal obligation, there is a complaints office in accordance with the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG). The complaints office is equally responsible for employees and students of Bielefeld University. An internal university reporting office for those affected by sexualised harassment, discrimination and violence is currently being set up.
Emergency contacts
- Security Service
- Overview of crisis services (pdf)
- Help hotline Violence against Women, 116 016(no area code necessary any more) available around the clock, www.hilfetelefon.de, online and chat counselling also possible
- Violence against men help line, 0800 123 9900, Mon - Thurs 8.00 - 20.00, Fri 8.00 - 15.00 https://www.maennerhilfetelefon.de/, online and chat counselling also possible
What are so-called "pick-up artists"?
So-called "pick-up artists" systematically approach women with the implicit aim of seducing or compelling them to engage in sexual acts. "Pick-up" is based on strategies and "tricks", such as deliberate boundary crossing and targeted degradation, in order to manipulate women. The principle of "no means no" is alien to the pick-up scene. "No" always means "not yet" and is interpreted as a challenge. This is based on an image of gender and women that objectifies women and values them primarily based on attractiveness. The principles of "pick-up" go beyond attempts at self-help for shy young men or rehearsed flirts.
How do so-called "pick-up artists" operate?
- Approaching women in public spaces (canteens, university halls, campuses, etc.):
- Usually many women are approached one after the other with the same pick-up line or under the same pretense.
- Monologuing/ intrusive enquiries: Women are asked for their contact details and invited on "dates", sometimes in written form, by handing over small pieces of paper, etc. Refusals are ignored and the women continue to be verbally harassed.
- Compliments are followed by humiliation: The method is called push & pull. First the woman is shown interest with a friendly compliment and afterwards the compliment is undercut with a cheeky insult. This is meant to create a power imbalance by making the woman feel insecure.
- Incessant small touches: Physical contact is quickly established, e.g. by touching the arm or somewhere similar. This is intended to simulate intimacy that would otherwise not occur this quickly.
- Rejection is not accepted: A "no" or "not interested" is not accepted.
- So-called "pick-up artists" can act alone, but they often operate in small groups and are supported in their approach by a second man.