What the Zero Tolerance Pledge Means for TU Dublin
On 2 December 2025, TU Dublin became the first university in Ireland to publicly sign the Zero Tolerance Pledge, a community‑led initiative that declares violence against women is not tolerated within participating organisations or on their premises. The pledge is more than a symbolic statement; it is a concrete commitment that shapes campus culture, informs policy, and drives action across the university’s academic and social life.
A Commitment to Safety and Inclusion
The pledge aligns with TU Dublin’s long‑standing focus on safety, respect, and inclusion. By adopting the Zero Tolerance stance, the university signals that it will actively prevent, respond to, and address incidents of violence, harassment, and coercive control. This includes a zero‑tolerance policy for any behaviour that undermines the dignity and safety of women and girls, as well as a recognition that violence can also be perpetrated by women against men and that domestic abuse within the LGBTI+ community must be acknowledged and addressed.
Community‑Led Initiative in Dublin’s Inner City
The Zero Tolerance Pledge originated in Dublin’s Inner City, where a coalition of community groups, businesses, arts organisations, and sports clubs publicly declared that they would not tolerate violence against women. The campaign has grown to include public artworks, murals, and a distinctive badge that organisations can display to show their commitment. TU Dublin’s participation places the university at the forefront of a city‑wide movement that encourages local stakeholders to take responsibility for creating safer public spaces.
How TU Dublin Supports Students and Staff
Speak Out: Reporting Harassment and Violence
Central to the university’s response is the Speak Out tool. This confidential platform allows students, staff, and visitors to report incidents of harassment, violence, discrimination, or misconduct. The tool is designed to provide a supportive environment, ensuring that reports are handled with sensitivity and that respondents receive appropriate follow‑up and resources.
To use Speak Out, simply visit the link above, select the type of incident, and provide details. The system will route your report to the university’s Sexual Violence Prevention and Response team, led by Catherine Bolger, who oversees policy implementation and support services.
Educational Programs and Workshops
Beyond reporting mechanisms, TU Dublin offers a range of educational initiatives aimed at fostering awareness and prevention. These include mandatory workshops for new students, seminars on consent and respectful communication, and training for staff on recognising and responding to signs of coercive control. The university also collaborates with local organisations to host public talks and art projects that highlight the impact of violence against women and the importance of community solidarity.
Getting Involved: Actions for Students, Staff, and the Wider Community
Participate in Campus Events and Art Projects
Students and staff are encouraged to engage with the Zero Tolerance campaign through creative expression. In the launch event, poets, musicians, and visual artists performed pieces that reflected the campaign’s themes. Similar opportunities exist throughout the academic year, such as mural projects on campus, spoken word nights, and music performances that raise awareness and build community.
Advocate and Raise Awareness
Advocacy extends beyond the university’s borders. Community members can join the coalition by displaying the Zero Tolerance badge, participating in public art installations, or supporting local initiatives that promote safe environments. By sharing information on social media, hosting discussion forums, or collaborating with local businesses, individuals can help reinforce the message that violence against women is unacceptable.
Next Steps and Resources
Access the Zero Tolerance Badge and Public Art
Organizations that have signed the pledge can request a badge to display on premises. The badge serves as a visible reminder of the commitment to safety. Additionally, TU Dublin will showcase the pledge on campus signage and in digital communications, ensuring that all visitors are aware of the university’s stance.
Contact and Further Information
For more details on the Zero Tolerance Pledge, the Speak Out tool, or how to get involved, visit the university’s Zero Tolerance page. Staff and students can also reach out to the Sexual Violence Prevention and Response team via email at [email protected] or by calling +353 1 220 5000.
Learn more about TU Dublin’s Zero Tolerance resources by visiting the pledge page linked above.
Use the Speak Out tool to report incidents confidentially and help maintain a safe campus environment.
Explore how you can join the Zero Tolerance coalition and contribute to a safer community.
Attend upcoming workshops on safety and inclusion to deepen your understanding and support the initiative.
