All of this is based on understanding sexual violence as a structural phenomenon derived from gender inequality—which, in intersection with substance use, takes on specific forms—and therefore promoting changes that are also structural and systemic.

The Noctámbul@s observatory bases its work on analysis and preventive intervention, using a participatory action-research approach, with the goal of changing the perspectives of young people as well as of the professionals involved in nightlife settings and in prevention/risk reduction efforts.

ABSTRACT

Title: Sexualised violence and use of drugs in nightlife contexts: from fear culture to preventive feminist strategies

Summary: Sexual violence manifests in various forms, encompassing a broad spectrum of behaviours and practices rooted in a patriarchal, binary, and hierarchical social structure. Numerous evidence show how, in nightlife settings, sexualised violence against women and LGBTQI+ individuals occurs within a specific climate of impunity, normalisation, and silencing.

This presentation by Observatorio Noctámbul@s establishes a theoretical framework for understanding sexualised violence in nightlife from a feminist and gender perspective. Within these spaces, particular dynamics involving drug consumption, sexuality, and the use of space shape how mechanisms of power and control are reproduced and collectively understood, contributing to inequalities in accessing and enjoying nightlife. Additionally, the social and media portrayals of sexualised violence are influenced by a variety of myths that generate narratives and interventions based on fear and focus on female responsibility. These narratives perpetuate sexual terror and fail to address the structural nature of sexualised violence.

The goal of this presentation is to deepen our understanding of how sexualised violence functions through specific dynamics in nightlife environments that encourage its normalisation and impunity, ultimately enabling the development of more effective and transformative strategies. Additionally, it aims to deconstruct prevalent myths about sexualised violence and reassess the narratives that shape social discourse and prevention strategies, which often contribute to the perpetuation of gendered and sexual violence.