Transgressive behaviour is any form of unwanted verbal, non-verbal or physical behaviour that harms the integrity of a person or that leads to a threatening, hostile, insulting, humiliating or hurtful situation.

Transgressive behavior comes in different forms:

• Emotionally transgressive behavior: think of verbal aggression, bullying, ignoring or excluding, humiliating, insulting, spreading lies, discrimination.

• Physical aggression: such as abuse and physical violence.

• Verbal/online sexually transgressive behaviour: for example, unwanted sexually suggestive messages or comments, pushy behaviour or staring.

• Physical sexual misconduct: kissing or touching against one's will, assault, rape.

• Discrimination: treating people differently, discriminating against them, or excluding them based on personal characteristics such as nationality, skin color, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, or religion.

Movisie, commissioned by Taskforce GO!, conducted research into inappropriate behavior in the music sector. Nearly 1,000 music professionals participated. The research shows that:

• half of the respondents have experienced some form of intimidating or emotionally abusive behavior at work.

• one in three respondents has personally experienced verbal/online sexually transgressive behavior.

• one in five respondents has been a victim of physical sexual misconduct.

• approximately one in ten respondents has experienced physical aggression.

Read the Movisie study 'Visualizing Transgressive Behavior in the Music Industry' below.

There is no room for transgressive behavior in the music industry.

We must work together to achieve this. How do we do that? By speaking out against unacceptable behavior, so we can create a safe and inclusive sector where everyone feels at home.

Experiencing transgressive behavior often has negative consequences for the victim. Besides various psychological and/or physical consequences, transgressive behavior also had concrete consequences for some respondents' careers; they were fired or dismissed, their contracts were not renewed, or they received no or poor references.

Undesirable behavior in the music industry isn't always reported, often out of fear of the consequences for the victim. Reporting is crucial; it helps address the problem and prevent others from becoming victims.

Speak up if you experience or see something unpleasant happening to someone else. Support the victim or call Mores. For advice or to contact a confidential counselor, please contact us. As an employer or client, you can take action to create a safe work environment. Together, we can set the tone and make the music sector a safe place for everyone.