Sexual violence

Sexual violence can happen anywhere: in public, at work, online or within a partnership and the family. Sexual violence is a form of domestic violence. It can be reported to the police. Even if a victim does not want to report it to the police, it is important to get a medical examination after the assault.

What is sexual violence?

Sexual violence refers to acts of a sexual nature that are forced or coerced upon someone. Examples include: sexual harassment or sexual assault, sexual coercion, sexual abuse in childhood, sexual exploitation or rape. Sexual violence may also takes place online. For example, when intimate videos or photos of a partner are shared on social media without consent.

Sexual violence occurs in all social classes and age groups and can affect anyone. Sexual violence is prohibited and punished in Switzerland.

Important to know

Most sexual offences are not committed by strangers, but by partners, ex-partners, acquaintances and colleagues. Those affected often feel ashamed and suffer from feelings of guilt. It takes courage to seek help. Following rape, however, it is important to have a medical examination. A report can also be made to the police at a later date.

Where can I find help?

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence:

Medical examination
Seek medical attention within 72 hours where possible.

  • You can arrange a medical examination and documentation of your injuries with your family doctor's practice.
  • Otherwise, please contact the Aargau Medical Emergency Hotline, 0900 401 501 (CHF 3.23 per minute, on landlines).

Forensic examination

  • Aarau Cantonal Hospital offers free forensic examinations for victims of physical and sexual violence.
  • Your information is treated confidentially.
  • The injuries suffered during the violence are documented and evidence secured.
  • Upon request, you may be referred to the Aargau victim counselling service.
  • Contact: forensic examination centre for victims of violence, 062 838 64 62.

Open hours: Monday to Friday from 8am to 12pm noon and from 1.30pm to 4pm. www.ksa.ch/gewaltopfer

Securing evidence

  • If you cannot visit a family doctor's practice or hospital straight away, keep evidence like clothing safe in a paper bag.
  • Chat logs and SMS messages may also serve as evidence. Save this data.

Additional support

  • The Aargau victim counselling service offers legal and psychological support.
  • It also provides information about the advantages and disadvantages of reporting the crime to the police.
  • The costs of treatment are assumed by the victim support service, regardless of whether or not you decide to report the crime to the police.
  • Contact: Aargau victim counselling service, 062 835 47 90 or chat, www.opferberatung-ag.ch