Sensoa, the Flemish expertise centre for sexual health, has launched a 'Toolbox' to help local governments tackle wolfwhistling, catcalling and other forms of sexual harassment in public spaces.
"Local governments can significantly reduce sexual street harassment," Sensoa stated in a press release. "They know their cities and towns best and can pinpoint the exact trouble spots."
The centre launched its Safe Public Space Toolbox on Thursday, a free online manual that provides practical tips for making public spaces safer. As well as guidance on what acts constitute sexual harassment, local governments receive advice on smart lighting, placement of street furniture and creating 'safe spaces' during events.
Sensoa also suggests creating 'corridors' by placing benches on both sides of a walkway to help people feel less observed.
'Local authorities can make a big difference'
Flemish Minister for Welfare Caroline Gennez (Vooruit) has expressed support for the project.
"Everyone in Flanders, regardless of gender, age, origin or sexual orientation, should be able to feel safe on the street and in public spaces," she said. "We must take strict action against sexually transgressive behaviour and intimidation on the street, but local authorities can make a big difference with relatively simple interventions."
Research by Plan International Belgium in 2021 showed that 91% of girls and 28% of boys have faced sexual harassment.
Sensoa previously developed a guiding flag system on how to respond to inappropriate behaviour at work or in sports clubs. This new initiative aims to embed the approach to street harassment into local policies.
