Consent

Consent is an agreement between participants to engage in an activity, most commonly discussed in the context of sexual activity. It must be freely given, informed, reversible, enthusiastic, and specific. Consent can be communicated through words or actions that clearly indicate willingness to participate. Silence or lack of resistance does not constitute consent.

Key elements of consent include:

• Freely Given: Consent must be given without pressure, manipulation, coercion, or intimidation. It is a voluntary choice made without force or threats.
• Reversible: Anyone can change their mind at any time, even if they have previously consented or are currently engaged in the activity. Consent can be withdrawn at any point, and the activity must stop immediately.
• Informed: All parties must have all the relevant information and understand what they are consenting to.
• Enthusiastic: Consent should be given with clear willingness and mutual desire. If there is hesitation or uncertainty, the activity should stop.
• Specific: Agreeing to one activity does not imply consent to others. Consent is an ongoing process and must be obtained for each activity and each time.

Consent can be verbal (e.g., saying "yes," "that sounds great," or "I want to keep doing this") or non-verbal (clear actions that show willingness), but it must always be unambiguous and conscious.

Importantly, consent cannot be given if a person is underage, intoxicated, unconscious, or coerced through threats or unequal power dynamics (such as between an employee and employer or student and teacher).

In summary, consent is about clear, ongoing communication and mutual agreement without any form of pressure or coercion.