Who is able to move freely and safely through public spaces? This project examines how sexual harassment occurs and is experienced in streets, on public transport, in parks and other public spaces in Norway – and how such experiences affect safety, participation and freedom of movement.
The project will investigate sexual harassment in public spaces in Norway and contribute new research-based knowledge about how the phenomenon manifests, who is affected, the situations and settings in which it occurs, and its consequences for safety, freedom of movement, and participation in society. Particular emphasis is placed on the experiences of groups that research shows may be especially vulnerable, including young women, minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities. The aim is to strengthen the knowledge base for prevention and the development of safer public spaces.
The project uses a mixed-methods design that combines qualitative and quantitative approaches. The data foundation includes a literature review, observations in public spaces, in-depth interviews, walk-along interviews, and interviews with key stakeholders, as well as a nationwide survey of school pupils and university students.
The analyses will shed light on the relationships between sexual harassment, spatial factors, social norms, power structures, and the experiences of different groups. The project will also develop knowledge about measures and strategies that can contribute to increased safety and reduced risk of harassment in public spaces.
