Content Warning: The contents of this blog refer to gender-based violence. If you would like to access support without reading further, please follow this link, which includes resources on sexual harassment, assault and violence.

An image split into three parts showcasing various activities that students take part in during 16 days of activism including placard making and marching

The fight to end gender-based violence, in all of its forms, has never been so pertinent. Here at the SRC and amongst the student body, we all remain committed to creating a campus free of gender-based violence – by every means at our disposal.

Students at the University of Glasgow have spent many years making our stance clear: on or off our campuses, there is no room for gender-based violence! As we look ahead to the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence 2024, it is important that we remember why this fight continues. In the last year alone, it has been reported via that OFS that 20% of students have faced unwanted behaviours of a sexual nature, with a further 9% facing sexual violence. This is unacceptable.

Gender-based violence is an issue for us all, however, women experience higher rates of repeated victimisation and are much more likely to be seriously hurt and We must ensure that our spaces are safe for everyone.

Gender-based violence includes a wide range of harmful behaviours, including sexual assault, harassment, stalking and violence. It is in our classrooms, on our streets and at our nighttime events. For some, what is a ‘joke’ or acceptable behaviour, leaves others with years of recovery.

Our students have said no, it stops here.

The University is actively working to address gender-based violence on campus and has implemented a number of initiatives to improve support and prevention. You can find more information about the University's efforts and resources on their dedicated webpage.

How can you get involved in the fight against gender-based violence?

Firstly, and most importantly, familiarise yourself with the support available. The University offers a range of resources, including Counselling & Wellbeing Services and reporting mechanisms.

The SRC also provides dedicated support, such as our Let’s Talk about GBV Moodle module, Let’s Talk workshops focusing on consent and healthy relationships, a and an Advice Centre (both services are free, confidential and entirely independent of the University).

Secondly, challenge harmful behaviours whenever you see them. This could be something as simple as calling out a sexist joke or checking in with someone in a situation where that person looks uncomfortable. There may be quite subtle ways of intervening to check whether a person is at risk. It's not necessarily about challenging anyone or taking any personal risks or taking control away from a person who may be at risk of assault. It's more about helping them out of a situation so that they can identify where and with whom they will be safe.

Thirdly, join us for the Fight for the Night march on Thursday the 28th of November at 5.30pm at the Main Campus Memorial Gate. Let's unite with student-led organisations from across Glasgow to reiterate that these streets are ours, and together, we will eradicate gender-based violence.

Looking ahead

Throughout the 16 Days of Activism, the SRC will be collaborating with the other student organisations on campus, alongside our affiliated clubs and societies to bring you a range of events and activities. Whether it’s joining us at the march or just sharing something on social media, we hope you will engage with the 16 Days and help us in our aim to end gender-based violence.

Our campuses and this world will be free from all forms of gender-based violence. It stops here.

Iris Duane

VP Student Support 2024-25

Glasgow University Students’ Representative Council

First published: 19 November 2024

<< Stories