European studies on sexual violence attitudes and reporting

Recent research in Ireland and Spain has highlighted significant challenges regarding social attitudes and reporting behaviors related to sexual violence.

In Ireland, a Dublin Rape Crisis Centre survey identified widespread misconceptions concerning consent and victim responsibility. The study found that 37% of men under 25 believe victims bear partial responsibility if under the influence of substances, while 20% of all adults believe there are “a lot” of false allegations. Additionally, only 22% of respondents believe the Irish justice system treats victims fairly. In response, the center plans to launch a pilot programme focused on positive masculinity to address these narratives.

In Spain, research conducted by the University Observatory of Drug-Facilitated Sexual Violence revealed extremely low reporting rates among young victims in nightlife settings. The study found that 95.7% of victims do not report assaults to health services, psychologists, or authorities. While many victims share their experiences with social circles, only 4.3% communicate the aggression to medical, police, or judicial services. Reporting rates varied by the nature of the incident, with opportunistic chemical submission—where perpetrators exploit voluntary alcohol consumption—resulting in a reporting rate of only 1.4%.