Beyond Consent: Shining a Light on Sexual Violence

Sexual violence is a deeply traumatic and pervasive issue that affects countless lives globally, including right here in Suriname. It is often misunderstood, shrouded in myths, and can leave invisible wounds that are just as devastating as physical injuries. At its core, sexual violence is any sexual act committed without explicit consent. This fundamental principle is often obscured by harmful societal beliefs, making it crucial to break down common misconceptions and bring clarity to this critical topic.

It’s About Power and Control, Not Desire

One of the most dangerous myths surrounding sexual violence is that it is driven by uncontrollable sexual desire or passion. This is fundamentally untrue. Sexual violence is about power and control. Perpetrators use sexual acts as a means to dominate, humiliate, and exert their will over another person, stripping them of their autonomy and dignity. Understanding this distinction is vital, as it shifts the focus from victim-blaming to holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.

Forms of Sexual Violence

Sexual violence manifests in various forms, each equally damaging:

Rape: Non-consensual sexual penetration, which is a severe violation of a person’s bodily autonomy and a criminal offense. It’s important to note that Suriname’s Penal Code has been amended to recognize marital rape, removing the previous “out of marriage” requirement, which is a crucial step towards justice.
Sexual Assault: Any non-consensual sexual act that does not involve penetration, such as unwanted touching, groping, or forced sexual activity.
Sexual Harassment: Unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile or offensive environment. This can occur in various settings, including the workplace.
Coercion and Manipulation: Using threats, intimidation, guilt, or manipulation to pressure someone into sexual activity. This can be subtle and insidious, making it difficult for victims to identify.
Forced Prostitution/Trafficking: Forcing or coercing someone into commercial sexual exploitation.
Child Sexual Abuse: Any sexual act committed with a child, regardless of whether there was “consent.” Children cannot legally consent to sexual activity.

The Cornerstone: Enthusiastic, Continuous, and Freely Given Consent

Consent is not merely the absence of “no.” True consent must be:

Enthusiastic: It should be a clear, unambiguous, and willing “yes,” not a reluctant or hesitant agreement.
Continuous: Consent for one activity does not imply consent for another, nor does consent at one time imply consent for all future interactions. It can be withdrawn at any point.
Freely Given: It must be offered without pressure, manipulation, threats, or intimidation. A person who is incapacitated (due to alcohol, drugs, unconsciousness), asleep, or coerced cannot give consent.
Specific: Consent for one sexual act does not mean consent for all sexual acts.

When consent is not present, any sexual act is considered sexual violence.

The Profound Psychological and Emotional Trauma

The impact of sexual violence extends far beyond physical injury. Survivors often grapple with profound and lasting psychological and emotional trauma, which can manifest in numerous ways:

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder): Flashbacks, nightmares, hyper-vigilance, and avoidance behaviors.
Anxiety and Depression: Chronic feelings of worry, fear, hopelessness, and persistent sadness.
Guilt and Shame: Survivors may internalize blame, feeling ashamed or guilty despite being the victim.
Difficulty with Trust and Intimacy: The violation of trust can make it challenging to form healthy relationships and experience intimacy in the future.
Self-Harm and Suicidal Ideation: In severe cases, the emotional pain can lead to self-destructive behaviors.
Disconnection from Body: Survivors may feel disconnected from their own bodies as a coping mechanism.

These invisible wounds require immense courage to address and often necessitate specialized support for healing.

A Compassionate Perspective: Healing and Justice

For survivors of sexual violence, the journey to healing is deeply personal and often challenging, but it is possible. It requires acknowledging the trauma, seeking professional support, and understanding that healing is a process, not a destination.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, please remember:

You are not alone. Many individuals have gone through similar experiences, and support networks exist. In Suriname, the Women’s Rights Centre (+597 550 508 or +597 520 916) and STICRIS women’s shelter (+597 404 228) are available resources.
Your experience is valid. No one has the right to dismiss or minimize what happened to you.
It is never your fault. The responsibility lies solely with the perpetrator.
Help is available. There are organizations, counselors, and legal professionals who can offer confidential support, guidance, and pathways to justice.

By shining a light on sexual violence, challenging harmful myths, and emphasizing the crucial role of consent, we can create a society where survivors feel empowered to seek help and perpetrators are held accountable. Let’s work together to build a culture of respect, safety, and unwavering support for all.