The spectre of sexual abuse and violent rape is an everyday occurrence in modern Ireland. In 2007 it was reported that one woman was raped every day in that month alone, and recent statistics indicate an equally disturbing trend.
In today’s Ireland, a country that has largely dispensed with any semblance of propriety and prudence, there is a blinkered and wholly unjustified view that negates any link between immodest dress, inappropriate behaviour and the preponderance of sexual crime. Contrary to this, research indicates that one in every three people believe there is a link between rape and inappropriate behaviour.
We can of course stick our heads in the proverbial sand and ignore the evidence. We can regurgitate the banal mantra that removes any and all blame from those who dress or act immodestly, or we can accept that there is a problem with our liberal take on freedom.
Islam is often criticised for its restrictions on certain so-called liberties (women and men should dress modestly, alcohol is prohibited and unrestricted mixing of the sexes is forbidden, etc) but as Muslims we firmly believe that prevention is better than the cure. The relative infrequency of sexual crime in the practising Muslim world is a testimony to the fact that Islamic principles work towards building a better, safer society for all.
If there are men who simply cannot control their desires (and there are), and if there are women who dress and act in an inappropriate manner to attract attention (and there are – I seriously doubt that tight blouses, short skirts and high heels are worn for comfort) then it behoves us as concerned citizens to address these issues.
Liam Egan
Wexford, Ireland
