What is rape?

If a man or woman forces you to have penetrative sex or has sex with you without your consent or agreement, that’s rape. Rape includes penetration of the vagina, anus or mouth without consent or intercourse that is not agreed upon by both parties.

Whatever the circumstances, nobody has the right to force you to have sex or to have sex with you without you agreeing to it. If this happens to you, it’s important to remember it’s not your fault.

Both men and women can be raped.

If someone (male or female) sexually assaults you by penetrating you with another part of their body or another object, this is classed as ‘assault by penetration’ but is treated as rape.

What is consent?

Consent can never be assumed, even in a relationship or marriage. It doesn’t matter what you were wearing at the time — sex without your consent is rape.

You may not be able to give your consent if you were under the influence of alcohol or drugs, didn’t understand what was happening or were asleep. If you don’t have the capacity to give your consent, it cannot be assumed.

You’re allowed to change your mind — if at first you wanted to have sex but then decided against it, that’s ok and no-one has the right to force you to continue. If they don’t stop touching you sexually, then what they are doing is sexual assault or rape.

The age of consent in Liberia is 18.

Get help now

If you need to speak to someone or need help you can call

Pastor Favour D. Browne-Williams 
Phone: +231 88 663 2695