Catcalling and its Spatial Distribution in Urban Space – Two Case Studies from the Czech Republic

• In Event: Gender, Crime and Justice Working Group Panel 14: Space, place and safety

Abstract

Catcalling, referring to a subcategory of street harassment (Walton & Pedersen, 2022), is a pervasive issue in society and urban environments. It can be manifested as unwanted and often sexually suggestive comments, gestures, or actions directed at individuals in public spaces, primarily women. It contributes to an environment of harassment, intimidation, and objectification, making women feel unsafe and uncomfortable in urban areas all around the world. Additionally, it can escalate into more serious forms of harassment or violence, creating a hostile environment where individuals' rights to safety and dignity are compromised. Despite its widespread occurrence and the negative impact it has on individuals, catcalling is not addressed as a crime in the Czech legislation. This absence in the legal framework can lead to challenges in addressing this form of harassment and does not allow victims of catcalling to report such incidents to the police.
This study unveils findings from research investigating the spatial distribution and manifestation of catcalling incidents in two cities in the Czech Republic. The results revealed that over 70% of the participants in Olomouc and 60% of the participants in Zlín reported experiencing some form of catcalling in their city. Participants identified the most problematic hotspots for such behaviour including busy populated areas like railway stations, bus stops and urban parks as well as specified the types of catcalling they are facing. By shedding light on catcalling as a gender-based problem, this study emphasises the importance of legislative recognition, prevention, and action against this type of street harassment.

Author

• Lucia Brisudová, Palacký University Olomouc