Bern's anonymous reporting tool for sexism, queerphobia, and harassment has received nearly 1,100 reports in two and a half years. The data shows that verbal harassment and unwanted physical contact are the most common incidents, often occurring in public spaces.
Key Takeaways
- Bern's reporting tool has collected nearly 1,100 reports since its launch.
- Verbal harassment, including catcalling, is the most frequently reported issue.
- Incidents often happen on public streets and in public transport.
- The number of reports has decreased over time, but incidents likely have not.
- The tool aims to reduce the high number of unreported cases.
Understanding the Reporting Tool's Impact
The City of Bern introduced an anonymous online reporting tool two and a half years ago. This platform allows individuals to report experiences or observations of sexism, queerphobia, or harassment. It serves as a crucial resource for those who might otherwise remain silent.
The website also provides important information. If a reported incident could be a criminal offense, the tool highlights this. It then directs individuals to relevant support services, such as the police or counseling centers. This dual function aims to empower victims and address the issue of underreported incidents.
Quick Facts
- Launch Date: Approximately two and a half years ago
- Total Reports: Nearly 1,100 incidents
- First Year Reports: Around 750 incidents
- Most Common Incidents: Verbal harassment, unwanted touching, staring
- Primary Locations: Public streets, public transport
Initial Engagement and Subsequent Trends
Christoph Gostelli, from the "Bern schaut hin" project, noted a high volume of reports immediately after the tool's launch. In its first year, the platform received approximately 750 inquiries. This initial response highlighted a clear need within the community for such a resource.
Over the entire two-and-a-half-year period, the total number of inquiries has reached nearly 1,100. While this cumulative figure is significant, there has been a noticeable decrease in the rate of new reports over time. This trend does not necessarily mean fewer incidents are occurring.
"The incidents unfortunately have not decreased, only the reports. This means for us that we must continue to work so that people know about our reporting tool," stated Christoph Gostelli.
This suggests that ongoing efforts are needed to maintain public awareness and encourage continued use of the platform. The goal is to ensure that the tool remains a visible and accessible option for those experiencing or witnessing harassment.
Nature of Reported Incidents
The latest evaluation report from the City of Bern provides insights into the types of incidents reported. The majority of submissions concern verbal harassment. This category includes behaviors such as catcalling, which involves whistling or shouting comments at someone in public.
Many individuals also reported experiencing unwanted physical contact or being stared at. These incidents contribute to an environment of discomfort and fear for many residents. The detailed breakdown helps authorities understand the specific challenges faced by the community.
Why Anonymous Reporting Matters
Anonymous reporting tools play a vital role in addressing sensitive issues like harassment. They provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences without fear of reprisal or judgment. This helps to overcome the "dark figure" of crime, which refers to unreported incidents. By collecting data, cities can better understand the scope of the problem and develop targeted prevention strategies.
Locations of Concern
The evaluation report also highlights where these incidents most frequently occur. The most common locations for reported harassment are public streets and public transport. This finding indicates that everyday public spaces, which should feel safe, are often where people encounter such behaviors.
Understanding these locations is critical for developing effective intervention and prevention strategies. It allows urban planners, law enforcement, and public transport operators to focus their efforts on specific areas to enhance safety for all residents. Increased presence or improved surveillance might be considered in these hotspots.
Ongoing Challenges and Future Steps
Despite the tool's success in gathering data, the decrease in new reports presents a challenge. It emphasizes the need for continuous campaigns to promote awareness of the platform and its purpose. Ensuring that the public knows about the tool is key to making it an effective long-term solution.
The City of Bern remains committed to tackling sexism, queerphobia, and harassment. The data collected through the reporting tool is essential for shaping future policies and initiatives aimed at creating a safer, more inclusive city for everyone. Continued vigilance and community engagement will be vital in this ongoing effort.