Whistling, catcalling, and intrusive looks. These are examples of street harassment; transgressive behavior that occurs daily. Often, it goes unrecognized as intimidation or is ignored. The new “What are you doing?” campaign from the municipality of The Hague urges bystanders not to look away, but to take action. Because small actions can make a big difference.
Many people want to help when they see someone being harassed on the street, but don’t know how. The “What do you do?” campaign offers tools to do just that: safely, effectively, and impactfully. In short videos, experts from Fairspace and the Stop Street Harassment Foundation explain how to recognize street harassment and what you can do. Distracting, confronting, seeking help, documenting, or offering support afterward—every action counts.
Alderwoman Mariëlle Vavier: “Even now, in 2025, women and queer people still have to be vigilant and make decisions every moment of the day about whether they can safely do what they want. The time is over for us to look the other way, or worse, for us to tell women and queer people how they should or shouldn’t behave or dress. With this campaign, we’re not focusing on them, the victims, but rather on the bystanders. The often silent witnesses to street harassment. To empower them and give them the tools to intervene and dare to do so. To stand together for normal behavior and make The Hague a safe place for everyone.”
Together against street intimidation
The campaign is supported by the Victim Support Fund, Fairspace, and the Stop Street Harassment Foundation. They are all committed to a culture where harassment is not tolerated and where bystanders know what they can do.
Janne de Leeuw, Victim Support Fund: ” It’s important to make it clear that we, as a society, condemn this. Street harassment isn’t always visible, but it has serious consequences. The feeling of powerlessness, shame, or fear can last a long time. To avoid street harassment, people, especially girls and women, sometimes consciously choose to dress differently or avoid certain places, thus restricting their freedom. If you witness street harassment, ask if the person being harassed is okay, or offer to walk with them for a bit. This way, they’re not alone and feel supported.”
What can you do?
Watch the videos. Share them. Talk about it. And above all: intervene if you see something happening. Don’t put yourself in danger, but act smart and consciously. The question isn’t whether you can do something, but what will you do?
More information and videos: denhaag.nl/watdoejij (in Dutch)
The campaign will be visible in the city and online until October 15.