Bystanders play an important role in stopping street harassment. Here are tips on how to intervene safely and effectively:
1. Be present and observe
Stay near the situation and observe what’s happening. Your presence can make the person being harassed feel safer. Assess what’s going on and how you might help safely.
2. Speak up
A simple question like “Are you okay?” can make a big difference — even after the harasser has left. This shows support and signals that such behavior is not acceptable. If you feel safe, you can also address the harasser directly.
3. Distract
Create a distraction to break the situation safely — for example, by asking for directions or starting a casual conversation. If someone is being stared at, stand in their line of sight to break eye contact.
4. Separate
Help remove either the harasser or the victim from the situation. You can do this directly or with a polite excuse. Even if you don’t know the person, you can pretend to — for example, by saying, “Hey, there you are! Shall we go?”
5. Involve others
If you don’t feel safe intervening alone, ask a security guard, staff member, or someone in authority to step in. You can also team up with another bystander and act together.
6. Report it
If you witness or experience street harassment, report it to the municipality. Every report helps us improve safety in public spaces.
