Equality
Partners in a relationship are not 2 identical persons. They are not the same, but have equal rights. This means that the limits and choices of each partner are respected.
A relationship is often unhappy when the limits of one of the partners are not respected.
Equal partners can help each partner to feel positive about himself or herself:
- They do not use force against each other (they do not feel that they have more value than the other person);
- They do not need the approval or opinion of the other about everything (they do not think they have less value than the other).
A couple talking as equals
Equal partners carry equal responsibility in a relationship. For example: they decide together whether they want to have children or not (family planning) and if or what kind of contraception they want to use.
Sometimes inequality can lead to partner violence or sexually abusive behaviour.
A woman and a man talking in bed about contraception
More information or help needed?
CAW - Centrum Algemeen Welzijn
Centre for general well-being - Help with all kinds of issues: a difficult relationship, medical, financial, administrative, legal or material problems, family problems,... CAWs also provide assistance to victims of violence and abuse. Find a CAW in your neighbourhood:
Family doctor
You can talk to a family doctor about almost every intimate issue. If necessary the family doctor can refer you to a specialised health professional. Find a family doctor in your neighbourhood:
Community health centre (wijkgezondheidscentrum)
You can visit a family doctor in a community health centre. Other care professionals such as nurses and social workers also work at community health centres. Care is provided free of charge. Find a community health centre in your neighbourhood:
Ella
Information on marriage migration, mixed marriages and relationships, and gender
02 220 38 95
The Institute for the Equality of Women and Men
Here you can submit complaints about sex or gender identity discrimination.
02 233 41 75