Year after year, Groningen welcomes me with the last glimpses of warm weather, cheerful pubs, and friendly, sun-kissed Groningers. I find myself in a café with friends, dressed in a sundress, chatting about summer adventures, upcoming parties, and the excitement of returning to classes. But this time, after reading the news, another topic dominates our conversation: safety.
Unfortunately, catcalls, strange looks, and unwanted attention are a reality that many women face when walking through any city. Yet, Groningen has always felt safer to me than other places.
This year, however, something feels different. Troubling news reports of criminal activity, stories of friends being followed home, and more frequent unsettling experiences of my own have made me rethink the sense of security I once took for granted.
I ask myself: Has it always been this way, and I’m only noticing it now? Maybe I am more aware because my friends and I have been somehow directly affected? Perhaps the rise of social media and news coverage amplifies these concerns? Whatever the reason, the real question is: What can we do to stay safe?
When I first moved to the Netherlands from a big city, I adhered to the ‘rules of safety’: don’t walk alone at night, avoid talking to strangers, and always have your phone ready. Over time, I relaxed these rules, feeling secure in Groningen—until one night, I was followed home by a man who harassed me with comments and stood outside my window after I managed to escape.
These discussions need to be more common to ensure that everyone knows how to protect themselves in unfamiliar situations
I realized then that, despite my years here, I didn’t really know what to do in such situations. And in this country, no one had taught me the ‘rules of safety’ specific to this environment.
Sharing my story with both Dutch and international friends opened up a conversation. Together with other internationals, I learned that, even if you’re followed, the police might not act unless there’s actual harm done.
My Dutch friends suggested alternatives: call someone, head for well-lit streets, or even act strangely yourself to deter the follower. And if the situation escalates, scream ‘fire’ to attract attention and gather DNA evidence for a potential case.
While this conversation was sobering, my friends also reminded me that Groningen is still a relatively safe city where people look out for each other. And that much of the safety here relies on community vigilance. But these discussions need to be more common to ensure that everyone, especially newcomers, knows how to navigate and protect themselves in unfamiliar situations.
So, avoid dark streets especially when walking alone. Pay attention to your surroundings, no matter how safe you feel. Text a friend when you get home and ask for one in return. Because Groningen is a welcoming place, but only by staying alert can we make it an enjoyable place for everyone. Let’s look out for each other, ourselves and keep Groningen safe!
LIZA KOLOMIIETS