Ghent (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Students in Ghent demand a permanent Purple Point for help against sexual harassment, inspired by Spain’s model. Backed by 3,500 signatures, Manar Kharrazi strongly supports it after a controversial Leuven rape case.
Ghent students are asking for a Purple Point, a place where people can get help if they experience or see sexual harassment. They started a petition that already has almost 3,500 signatures. Many people support this idea.
Ghent already has some ways to report these issues, but there isn’t a permanent place with trained staff. The students say a Purple Point, like the one in Spain, is needed all year long, especially in popular nightlife areas like Overpoort, so victims have a place to go and to make these areas safer.
Is Ghent planning a permanent reporting point for sexual harassment?
A recent court ruling in Leuven has provoked anger and outrage among youth and students. A medical student was convicted of rape but not punished. Most people view this as proof that the justice system does not treat sexual violence seriously, particularly if it happens to privileged individuals. This divisive decision has provoked public debate and has encouraged students in Ghent.
Manar Kharrazi explains:
“I don’t know a single woman who hasn’t been groped or harassed while out, or worse. It’s absurd that nothing is done to prevent that. In this case, rape was proven, which is not legally evident, and yet there were no consequences for the perpetrator. The victim didn’t even get the protection of a restraining order. You can’t just suspend any form of punishment for murder, so why would you do it for rape?”
The Purple Point started in Spain and has helped make these events safer. People who work there are trained to listen to people without judging them, offer support, and give advice. They can also help people file complaints or connect them with other services.
Officials mentioned that the Purple Point is easy to find at events, usually marked with purple signs, so people know they can get help if they need it. The Purple Point also helps stop people from acting inappropriately.
Manar Kharrazi, who supports this idea in Belgium, says,
“This place not only stops potential offenders but also gives victims a safe spot to go if they face harassment. It helps people feel safer when they go out.”
