Sexual violence in Quebec schools too often trivialized, says student advocate

Acts of sexual violence are not being treated with the seriousness they deserve in Quebec’s school system, says National Student Ombudsman Jean-François Bernier, who released his 2024-2025 report on Wednesday.

This is the second annual report from this organization, which was established in 2023.

Across Quebec, in 2024-2025, the organization received 1,077 complaints and reports, a slight increase from the 1,006 the previous year.

READ MORE: Violence between partners in teen romantic relationships on the rise: Montreal study

Of the 1,077 complaints or reports, 133 were related to acts of sexual violence.

“There is still a long way to go before these situations (acts of sexual violence) are treated with the seriousness they deserve,” wrote Bernier.

“Findings are emerging regarding the trivialization of the situations reported and the inadequacy of the measures put in place to support all the students involved, but also to supervise the student perpetrator and ensure the safety of the student victim and any student witnesses,” he continued.

READ MORE: Normalizing sexual violence: Quebec education minister has no intention of intervening

How can I seek help or help someone who has experienced sexual violence?

• Call 911 if you’re in immediate danger. If 911 isn’t available where you are, call your local police.
• Seek medical attention if needed. If you’ve been sexually assaulted, consider seeking medical attention. Not all injuries are visible. You can also ask about emergency contraception, sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, and pregnancy testing.
• Find a support service. 24/7 phone or chat support is available. Learn where to get help

- By Patrice Bergeron

- This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on Feb. 11, 2026.