Partners in a relationship are not 2 identical persons. They are not the same, but have equal rights. This means that the boundaries and choices of each partner are respected.
A relationship often does not feel right when the limits of one of the partners are not respected.
Equal partners can help each partner to feel positive about himself or herself:
- They do not use force against each other (they do not feel that they have more value than the other person);
- They do not need the approval or opinion of the other about everything (they do not think they have less value than the other).
A couple talking as equals
Equal partners carry equal responsibility in a relationship. For example: they decide together whether they want to have children or not (family planning) and if or what kind of contraception they want to use.
Sometimes inequality can lead to partner violence or sexually abusive behaviour.
A woman and a man talking in bed about contraception
More information or help needed?
General practitioner
You can talk to a general practitioner about every intimate topic. If necessary, a general practitioner can refer you to a specialised health professional. Refugees who have been granted (temporary) asylum choose a general practitioner in their municipality. Asylum seekers in an asylum seekers’ centre can consult a general practitioner at the centre.
Veilig Thuis ('Safe at home')
Veilig Thuis (Safe at Home) provides free information and advice in the case of violence in a partner relationship or family.
Police
Assistance in a life threatening situation
112
Emergency
Call 112 if you need help immediately.
112
Anti-discrimination bureaus
If you feel discriminated against, you can report it to an anti-discrimination office.
