Harassment in clubs

“A lot of hard, physical violence happens”

Sexual assaults are often taboo and not reported.

(Bild: Jöchl Martin (Symbolbild))

For many Styrian women, sexual assaults are a sad part of party nights. However, not even ten percent of incidents are reported to the police. Ina Mastnak is the managing director of the Tara advice center and knows why. Charlotte Melassardi, a 19-year-old student, wants to do something about it herself.

A groper in passing, intrusive flirting or even just an unpleasant look - "every woman has experienced it," says Ina Mastnak. We are talking about sexual violence and harassment, with over 50 percent of the latter occurring in public spaces, explains Mastnak. As the managing director of the Tara advice center in Graz, she can confirm the figures based on hard-hitting practice. She receives reports from women who have experienced assaults in bars or on their way home - or who have even been victims of knockout drops. The shocking thing is: "It can happen to anyone, there is no typical victim," says Mastnak.