We Consent Benchmark Research 2025

Part of DRCC’s national We-Consent campaign, this new research shows that while most people believe they personally understand consent, many still hold beliefs that undermine it in practice.  It was launched on 28 August 2025.

Key findings include: 

• 93% of people in Ireland say they understand issues around lack of consent, yet they believe only 62% of the general population share that understanding. 

• Young men aged 18-24 are the least confident, with 16% unsure what consent means. 

• Almost half (47%) of the population want to know more about consent. 

• Nearly 1 in 4 men under 45 (23%) say they would “probably keep going” even if they suspected their partner isn’t enjoying a sexual encounter – up 3% since 2024.  

• 27% agree that “sometimes people say no when they want convincing,” However, 43% of men under 45 hold this belief - up 8% since January 2024. 

• 1 in 10 men agree that “willingness can be assumed because there is no clear objection.” 

• 90% agree everyone has the right to change their mind at any point during a sexual encounter, up 2% since 2024. 

• 76% agree that “I am comfortable having consent conversations with my friends” - which lowers to 64% of men aged 35-54.  

• 87% agree that “It is up to parents to ensure their children understand consent” - a view most strongly held by those over 55. 

• 69% agree that “It is up to schools to ensure young people understand consent” - a view most strongly held by women under 35.