Over the past few years, there has been more and more public discussion surrounding the subject of sexual assault on college campuses. According to a 2014 report by the White House Task Force to Protect Students from Sexual Assault, one in five college students experiences sexual assault during their college career, affecting people of any gender.
It's important that international students are aware of their rights and know what to do if a sexual assault occurs. Since laws and ethical standards vary by country, become familiar with the US laws and know your rights while living in the US.
There are a number of reasons that international students may be at risk of sexual assault. These include:
Language – if there is a language barrier between people, it can be difficult for them to have a clear conversation about what they want and do not want, and what they are or are not comfortable with. This ambiguity can create confusion around consent from both parties.
Cultural barriers – every culture has its own customs and norms about what is acceptable when it comes to sex. In the US, consent is key and is important in any relationship.
Different laws – laws and ethical standards vary around the world, so it is important to find out what the laws are in the United States as they may not be the same in your home country.
Lack of support networks – International students are far away from their friends and family, often for the first time. This can put them at greater risk of being sexually assaulted, as attackers may assume that international students are less likely to talk about being attacked.
All of these factors can lead to an increased risk of sexual assault. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your friends, as well as resources to help you if you are sexually assaulted. In this article, we will discuss the rights of students, what to do if you or someone you know has been assaulted, and how you can help prevent an assault.