Experiences of sexual violence are concentrated among women

Sexual violence is common in Finland, and its consequences are severe. Experiences are particularly concentrated among women and young people.

According to studies, as many as 43 per cent of women and 12 per cent of men aged 16–74 have experienced sexual violence during their lifetime. One in six women has been a victim of rape. Among young people, the situation is particularly alarming: according to the 2025 School Health Promotion Survey, approximately one third of girls and one in ten boys had experienced disturbing sexual propositions or harassment during the preceding 12 months.

“Legislative changes, such as the consent-based definition of rape introduced at the beginning of 2023, have increased reporting and broadened the legal criteria of the offence. There has also been an increase in the number of crime victimisation,” says Jenni Krogell, Senior Specialist at the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL).

Preventing sexual violence requires determined action

The consequences of sexual violence are serious: it causes more often physical and psychological symptoms than other forms of violence. The majority of cases remain hidden from the authorities.

Preventing sexual violence requires a comprehensive approach. High-quality sexuality education, emotional and safety skills education, and services for those who use violence are needed. Factors that contribute to the accumulation of violence must also be addressed at an early stage.

“Sexual violence is not an isolated phenomenon but part of a broader societal problem. It is linked, for example, to attitudes that tolerate violence and to gender inequality. Previous experiences of violence, young age, disability or limitations in functional capacity, substance abuse, and psychological vulnerability increase the risk of experiencing sexual violence. This is why there is no single solution to its prevention; it requires determined efforts, resources, and political will. Everyone has the right to a safe life,” says Krogell.

Seri Support Centres help those who have experienced sexual violence

Seri Support Centres (sexual assault referral centres, SARC) provide forensic medical examinations and crisis support for people who have experienced sexual violence. Individuals should seek support from a centre within one month of the incident.

Filing a criminal report is not a prerequisite for accessing the services of a support centre, although reporting is encouraged. There are a total of 25 centres across Finland.

How should support be developed?

Seri Support Centres and the services they provide have developed significantly in recent years, but there is still a need to improve service accessibility and the adequacy of follow-up support. The need for multidisciplinary support is substantial, but current service pathways are not always able to meet this need. Therefore, it is important to coordinate services more effectively than at present.