Irish Survey: 5% of Female International Students Offered Sex for Rent in 2024
A Bolivian student in Ireland faced sexual exploitation from her sub-landlord, highlighting the vulnerability of international students. A 2024 survey revealed 5% of female international students were offered sex for rent. New legislation criminalizing such offers, with fines up to €5,000, is expected by mid-July.
Maria, a Bolivian student who arrived in Ireland in 2023, experienced sexual exploitation when her sub-landlord demanded sex in exchange for fixing a light in her shared room. She was living in a crowded Clontarf house with about 20 other international students and immigrants, paying €400 monthly for a bunk bed. After the incident, Maria left the house and found alternative accommodation.
Her experience highlights the vulnerability of international students in Ireland's housing crisis. A 2024 survey by the Irish Council for International Students (Icos) found that 5% of female respondents (14 women) and eight men had either received or seen offers for accommodation in exchange for sex. The survey, conducted between September 19 and October 6, 2024, involved 512 international students from 64 nationalities.
Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan is confident the Criminal Law and Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill will be enacted by mid-July. This legislation will criminalize offering or advertising accommodation in exchange for sexual activity, with penalties up to €5,000. Civil society organizations, including Icos and the National Women’s Council, welcome the bill, emphasizing the need for enforcement and accountability, especially from social media platforms where many such ads appear.