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Prof. Liam O'Connor, PhD

Prof. Liam O'Connor is an internationally recognized scholar and practitioner in consent education and sexual ethics, with over 18 years of experience in research, curriculum development, and public advocacy. His work focuses on promoting a culture of consent through evidence-based education, communication skills training, and policy development. Prof. O'Connor has delivered workshops and lectures globally, emphasizing safe and respectful interpersonal interactions.

Specialization

• Consent Education and Advocacy
• Sexual Ethics and Rights
• Adolescent and University Sexual Health
• Conflict Resolution and Communication
• Policy Development for Sexual Safety

Education

• 2003–2007: BA in Sociology, University of Dublin
• 2007–2009: MSc in Sexuality Studies, University of Amsterdam
• 2009–2013: PhD in Consent and Sexual Education, University of Edinburgh

Professional Experience

• 2013–2016: Sexual Health and Consent Educator, European Youth Network
• 2016–2020: Senior Lecturer, University of Edinburgh – Consent & Sexual Ethics
• 2020–Present: Director, International Consent Education Project (ICEP)
• Advisor to governments and NGOs on implementing consent education programs

Selected Scientific Publications

• O'Connor, L. (2022). "Integrating Consent into Secondary Education Curricula." Journal of Sexual Health Education, 15(1), 33–59.
• O'Connor, L., & Smith, J. (2020). "Understanding and Teaching Sexual Boundaries." International Journal of Consent Studies, 7(2), 88–112.
• O'Connor, L. (2018). "Policy Guidelines for Consent Education Programs." Sexual Ethics Review, 11(3), 44–70.

Professional Memberships

• International Society for Sexual Health (ISSH)
• European Network for Sexual and Reproductive Health Education (ENSRHE)
• Consent Education Network (CEN)
• American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT)

Participation in International Projects

• Lead Consultant, UNESCO “Global Consent Education Initiative” (2019–2023)
• Advisor, UN Women “Youth Consent and Gender Equality Programs” (2020–2022)
• Project Director, European Commission “Digital Tools for Consent Awareness” (2021–Present)

Work on Educational Programs

• Creator of “Consent and Boundaries Curriculum” for secondary and higher education
• Online modules on consent communication, safe relationships, and ethical sexual behavior
• Trainings for educators, counselors, and NGO staff on consent best practices

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

• Guest lecturer at TEDx Edinburgh: “The Power of Consent Education” (2021)
• Contributor to BBC World Service: “Youth and Consent Awareness”
• Regular host on the “Consent Matters” podcast

Unique Values and Experience

Prof. O'Connor combines extensive academic research with hands-on program implementation. His experience across Europe and North America equips him to develop culturally sensitive, evidence-based educational content that empowers young people and educators to foster a safer, more respectful society.