A new Dublin Rape Crisis Centre survey has exposed a serious concern about attitudes towards sexual violence in Ireland. The research found that 37 per cent of men under 25 believe a rape victim is at least partly responsible if they had been drinking alcohol or taking drugs, highlighting the continuing need for consent education and public awareness.
Key findings from the survey
The research found that 15 per cent of adults overall believe a person who is raped while under the influence of alcohol or drugs bears some responsibility for what happened. That figure rises sharply among younger respondents.
- 37 per cent of men under 25 expressed this view.
- 25 per cent of women under 25 agreed with the statement.
- 15 per cent of adults across all age groups held the same belief.
The figures have prompted renewed attention on how Irish society understands consent, intoxication and responsibility in cases of sexual violence.
Why the findings matter for Ireland
Being intoxicated does not transfer responsibility for an assault from the perpetrator to the victim. Consent must be freely given, and a person who is unconscious, incapacitated or unable to make a clear decision cannot provide meaningful consent.
The survey results suggest that misconceptions remain particularly strong among younger people. This matters because attitudes about alcohol, drugs and sexual behaviour can influence whether victims feel believed, whether incidents are reported and how communities respond to allegations.
Victim-blaming can also create an additional barrier to seeking support. Someone who fears being judged for what they were wearing, where they went, or how much they drank may delay contacting specialist services or the Gardaí.
Consent education remains central
Consent is an ongoing and mutual process. It can be withdrawn at any time, and silence, previous sexual activity or the absence of physical resistance should not be treated as agreement.
Effective education needs to go beyond legal definitions. Young people also need practical guidance on:
- recognising enthusiastic and informed consent;
- understanding how alcohol and drugs can affect capacity;
- challenging harmful peer attitudes;
- supporting friends who disclose an assault; and
- intervening safely when someone may be at risk.
Families, schools, colleges, sports organisations and youth services all have a role in reinforcing these messages. Education is most effective when it addresses behaviour, power, respect and accountability rather than focusing only on risk reduction for potential victims.
Support available after sexual violence
Anyone affected by rape or sexual assault can seek confidential support from specialist rape crisis services. Support is available whether an incident happened recently or in the past, and a person does not need to report to the Gardaí before asking for help.
People supporting a friend or family member should listen without blame, avoid pressing for details and allow the survivor to decide what happens next. Statements that question drinking, clothing or location can reinforce shame and discourage further support.
What readers should remember
Responsibility for rape lies with the person who commits it. Alcohol or drug use does not make a victim responsible for an assault, and intoxication is never permission.
What happens next?
The survey is likely to add pressure for continued investment in prevention programmes and consent education across Ireland. Its findings also provide a warning that legal and social progress does not automatically eliminate damaging beliefs.
Changing attitudes requires consistent conversations, accurate information and clear accountability. It also requires services that survivors can access without fear of disbelief or judgement.
Frequently asked questions
Does drinking alcohol mean a person is responsible for rape?
No. The responsibility for rape rests with the perpetrator. Alcohol consumption does not justify sexual violence or make the victim accountable for another person’s actions.
Can an intoxicated person consent?
Consent must be informed, voluntary and ongoing. If someone is too intoxicated to understand or communicate a decision, they cannot provide valid consent.
Where can someone seek help in Ireland?
People affected by rape or sexual assault can contact a local rape crisis service for confidential support. They can also contact the Gardaí if they wish to report an incident.
Conclusion
The survey’s findings are a stark reminder that Ireland still faces a major challenge in confronting victim-blaming attitudes. The message from this Breaking News report is clear: drinking or taking drugs never makes someone responsible for being raped. Better consent education, supportive services and a culture of accountability are essential to changing these attitudes.
