The Northern Ireland Assembly included “Upskirting” and “Down Blousing” in its Justice (Sexual Offences and Trafficking Victims) Bill (April 2022).
Upskirting and Downblousing
What is upskirting?
Upskirting refers to the act of taking a photograph under a person’s clothing without their consent with intention of obtaining sexual gratification, or to cause humiliation, distress or alarm. It is an alarmingly common occurrence and is usually performed in a public place, which is often crowded, which makes it hard to spot people taking such images. It is a form of image-based sexual abuse.
Anyone, any gender, any age, can be a victim and this behaviour is completely unacceptable.
What is downblousing?
Downblousing is the act of taking a photograph or image down somebody's shirt, blouse or top without their consent with intention of obtaining sexual gratification, or to cause humiliation, distress or alarm.
How can upskirting and/or downblousing affect somebody?
Being a victim of such an indecent act may make you feel incredibly uncomfortable and vulnerable, particularly if you are alone. If the person or persons responsible are exhibiting intimidating behaviours, then you may feel unable to confront them for fear of further discomfort and/or of being threatened. The knowledge that someone has taken potentially graphic images without consent can cause emotional distress for a long time after the event itself.
What punishment can perpetrators face?
Perpetrators could face up to two years in prison. Where committed to obtain sexual gratification, can result in the most serious offenders being placed on the sex offenders’ register for up to 10 years.