Dutch public says media focus too much on perpetrators in sexual misconduct cases

A majority of Dutch citizens believe that media coverage of sexual misconduct cases involving public figures disproportionately focuses on perpetrators rather than victims, according to a new survey by research agency Ipsos I&O. The findings, based on responses from approximately 2,500 Dutch respondents, highlight ongoing concerns about how sexual misconduct is reported in the Netherlands.

According to the survey, 53 percent of respondents said media attention in these cases primarily revolves around the perpetrator. Less than a quarter of participants felt that coverage focused more on the victim. Additionally, 41 percent expressed a preference for victims to be at the center of media attention, while only 17 percent believed that perpetrators should remain the main focus.

The findings mirror a similar survey conducted last year, where an even higher percentage—59 percent—felt that media narratives predominantly highlighted the perpetrator. At the time, only 13 percent supported this emphasis, further underscoring the disconnect between public sentiment and media coverage trends.

The survey results were shared with the Tweede Kamer on Friday by State Secretaries Mariëlle Paul (Emancipation) and Jurgen Nobel (Participation and Integration), both members of the VVD. They noted that 55 percent of respondents consider sexual misconduct a significant issue in the Netherlands, and 66 percent believe that stricter measures should be taken to combat such behavior.