Restoring a sense of safety among survivors of sexual harassment in higher education: policy recommendations from the UNI4EQUITY multinational study

Sexual harassment (SH) is a global public health concern that remains widespread in higher education, affecting individuals, groups, and institutions. This study, based on the UNI4EQUITY multinational survey involving 7,563 participants from six European universities, offers policy recommendations aimed at enhancing institutional safety for survivors. The results indicate a 37% prevalence of SH, occurring both offline and online. Among individuals with SH experience, women, LGB persons, and those aged 25–39 report lower perceptions of university safety. Trust in institutional support networks is positively associated with perceived safety, whereas reporting SH is linked to decreased feelings of safety. These findings highlight the need for a multi-level, systemic response, including awareness-raising, transparent governance, accessible support services, clear reporting mechanisms, and effective survivor protection to promote safety, trust, and institutional accountability.