One in 20 female international students in Ireland report being propositioned for sexual favors in exchange for housing, according to a disturbing new survey by the Irish Council for International Students (ICOS).
The comprehensive study of 512 international students exposes the severe accommodation crisis facing those who come to study in Ireland. Beyond the sexual exploitation, 14% of all respondents reported being expected to share not just a room but a bed with strangers.
“The owner asked after five days if I wanted to have sex with him,” revealed one French Erasmus student in the survey, highlighting the vulnerability many face.
The housing crisis is taking a significant toll on students’ wellbeing. More than half reported their mental health has suffered due to accommodation issues, with 56% saying their overall student experience has been negatively impacted and 41% stating their education has suffered as a result.
Financial exploitation is rampant, with 61% of working students spending half their monthly salary on rent, while 20% report spending a staggering 70% of their income on housing. Overcrowding is commonplace, with three-quarters of English language students and a third of higher education students sharing rooms.
More concerning still, 10% of respondents have fallen victim to accommodation scams, while 38% lack formal lease agreements. Less than a quarter understand their rights as renters.
According to The Journal, one Polish student summed up the desperation: “What’s the point of being aware of rights if it’s really a choice to accept whatever is given or be homeless?”
The ICOS is presenting these findings to politicians at Leinster House today, with Executive Director Laura Harmon calling for “urgent action” to address “sex-for-rent exploitation” and ensure Ireland remains a welcoming destination for international students.