Understanding Consent: A Foundation for Healthy Relationships

Consent is important in all relationships and interactions. It means getting clear permission before any intimate activity takes place. Real consent must be freely given without being pressured, manipulated, or coerced, and can be withdrawn at any time. When someone says “no” – through words, actions, or body language – that decision must be respected immediately and completely.

The basis of proper consent is communication. Both parties need to actively participate in an ongoing dialogue about their comfort levels. If there’s any doubt or uncertainty, the answer is NO!
It is also important to remember that silence, the absence of resistance, or a person being unable to respond never equals a green light.

Alcohol or drugs can impair a person’s ability to give consent. If someone is intoxicated, unconscious, or otherwise incapacitated, they cannot legally give consent. Additionally, consent to one activity does not automatically extend to other activities – separate consent is needed each time, and for each new type of interaction.

A person can change their mind at any time, even in the middle of an activity, and it must be respected. A person’s clothing, behavior, or past relationships are not invitations for unwanted advances, nor do they override the need for clear consent.

Building a culture of consent creates safer, more respectful communities for all.
Understanding and practicing proper consent shows respect for oneself and others. After all, everyone has the right to make choices about their own body, and those choices must be respected without exception. True consent requires an enthusiastic ‘YES’ – nothing less is acceptable.

NB – An underaged cannot give consent no matter how enthusiastic her “yes” is!

Children are generally not considered able to give informed consent. This is because children are seen as lacking the experience and cognitive maturity to fully understand and weigh the consequences of certain decisions, particularly regarding health, contracts, or personal safety.