New Study Exposes Shocking Prevalence of Sexual, Partner Violence Against Women International Students
A new study, INVEST, has shed light on the alarming prevalence of sexual and intimate partner violence against women international students. Conducted by the Gender Campus platform in collaboration with Swiss universities, the project found that a staggering 97% of sexual violence cases and 94% of intimate partner violence cases were perpetrated by men.
The research revealed shocking figures: 40% of women international students in Australia had experienced some form of sexual violence, with 18% reporting coerced or forced sexual acts, and 11% experiencing attempted or completed rape or sexual assault. The trauma was profound, including anxiety, depression, physical injuries, sexually transmitted infections, and unwanted pregnancies, often leading to withdrawal from social and academic opportunities.
Over half (54%) of women international students surveyed reported experiencing sexual or intimate partner violence in the last 12 months. The INVEST project's Practice Guide offers clear recommendations for education providers to support these students. However, many students do not seek help due to lack of knowledge, fear of trouble, or worry about request rejection, indicating failures in communication, trust, and visibility.
The study found that men often felt emboldened to abuse women international students due to their temporary visa status, believing legal consequences were unlikely. Perpetrators even threatened to cancel students' visas if they tried to get help or leave the relationship. To better support these students, it's crucial to reassure them that seeking help will not affect their visa or academic status, and to widely distribute safety information. The INVEST project's findings underscore the urgent need for action to protect and support women international students.
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