Op-Ed: The Silent Crisis on Campus

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For many young people in Cambodia, attending a university represents a dream come true—a chance to pursue knowledge, create a better future, and break cycles of poverty.

Yet, within the walls of Cambodia’s higher education institutions lies a hidden truth: the persistent issue of sexual violence against students.

In a society where discussing sexual violence is still highly stigmatized, victims face barriers to seeking justice, and many perpetrators go unpunished.

This hidden reality disrupts the lives of countless students, impacting their mental health, academic success, and overall sense of safety.

Sexual violence in Cambodian universities often goes unreported, leaving survivors without support and justice. Cases of harassment, assault, and abuse of power exist but are frequently swept under the rug, with victims fearing social stigma or academic repercussions.

In close-knit academic communities, where professors wield significant influence over students’ grades and futures, students—particularly young women—are often hesitant to come forward with complaints, fearing retaliation or disbelief.

A Culture of Silence and Stigma

In Cambodian society, conversations about sexual violence are deeply taboo, and this cultural stigma extends into universities. Victims of sexual violence, especially women, face intense social pressure to remain silent. Cultural expectations around modesty and respectability make it difficult for students to speak out, fearing that they will be labeled as “troublemakers” or face victim-blaming from their peers and even their families.

This pervasive culture of silence benefits perpetrators and leaves survivors to carry the burden of shame and self-blame.

In many cases, victims are advised to keep quiet to avoid “embarrassing” themselves or their families, reinforcing the cycle of stigma and silence. The lack of open discussion around sexual violence creates an environment where students feel they have nowhere to turn, and universities remain unequipped to handle these issues effectively.

Institutional Gaps: Lack of Support and Accountability

Cambodian universities are not equipped with comprehensive policies to address sexual violence, nor do they have adequate support systems for survivors. Unlike universities in some countries that provide dedicated resources such as counseling centers, reporting mechanisms, and trained personnel to handle cases of sexual violence, many Cambodian institutions lack even the most basic support structures. There is often no clear protocol for reporting incidents, leaving victims unsure of whom to turn to or how to report their experiences without risking repercussions.

Moreover, administrative bodies in universities are sometimes complicit in maintaining silence. Cases of harassment or assault that do come to light are often handled privately or dismissed as “personal matters,” without a thorough investigation or accountability. This lack of institutional response not only fails to protect survivors but also sends a message that these behaviors are tolerated, perpetuating a toxic environment where sexual violence can continue unchecked.

Survivors of sexual violence in higher education institutions experience not only physical and emotional harm but also an array of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

For students trying to focus on their studies, this emotional toll can have devastating effects on their academic performance and personal well-being. Survivors often feel isolated and misunderstood, fearing that sharing their experiences will lead to social ostracism or even loss of academic opportunities.

Final Thoughts:

Creating safer campuses in Cambodia requires both cultural and institutional change. Universities need to implement comprehensive policies to prevent and address sexual violence, starting with clear reporting mechanisms and protection against retaliation for those who come forward. Universities could establish confidential counseling services, helplines, and support groups to assist survivors, giving students a safe space to process their trauma and seek help.

Moreover, raising awareness is crucial to breaking the cycle of silence and stigma. Educational campaigns on consent, respect, and boundaries should be integrated into university orientations and curriculums, fostering an environment where sexual violence is recognized as a serious issue. This education would not only benefit students but also help faculty and staff understand the importance of creating a respectful and supportive campus culture.

Cambodia can also look to international examples where universities have successfully implemented “zero tolerance” policies against sexual harassment and violence. In countries where institutions hold perpetrators accountable and offer support to survivors, campuses have seen a shift toward safety and inclusivity. By adopting similar practices, Cambodian universities can begin to dismantle the stigma that surrounds sexual violence, empowering students to speak up and seek justice.

As Cambodia continues to expand its higher education system, creating safe spaces within universities should be a priority. The pursuit of knowledge should not come with the cost of safety or dignity. Universities can and should be places of growth, exploration, and mutual respect, where students are free to learn without fear.

In the end, a university’s true strength lies not in its academic rankings or reputation, but in the safety and support it provides to those who walk its halls.