Ever since sexual street harassment became a punishable offense on July 1, the reports have seen a rise from 14,000 in 2023 to 14,800 in 2024, underscoring a more alarming nature of the problem. To counter this, self-defense training has become more essential than it was before.

With the self-defense workshop at Krav Maga Leidsche Rijn, women are being trained in practical techniques to deal with real threats, along with the mental fortitude needed to be resilient. Saskia, a student/volunteer claims that the training was very helpful after she had to deal with abuse personally. Inspired by a friend, she states that even passive forms of defiance can help stop an assault, therefore making self-defense needed. She encourages all women to take these classes so that they too can feel empowered to take control of their safety. 

Are women’s self-defense classes the solution to decrease street harassment, and what fundamental lessons are key to ensuring long-term safety and empowerment for women in public spaces?