Frequently asked questions and answers (FAQ)

Kajira is an association for Ghent students with an interest in BDSM. We work towards broader social acceptance of BDSM and offer a platform for open conversations about BDSM in an accessible setting.

BDSM stands for Bondage, Discipline, Dominance & Submission, and Sadomasochism. It covers techniques such as bondage (restraint), discipline (rules and consequences), dominance and submission (power dynamics), and sadomasochism (pleasure through pain or control). At its core it's about consent, communication and trust.

The name "Kajira" comes from the Gorean language, where "la kajira" means "I am a slave girl". The term is used in John Norman's novel series, in which many slaves are depicted in female form.

Kajira was founded to create a safe, educational and supportive space for people interested in BDSM. We aim to break stereotypes, inform people and contribute to a respectful and well-informed community.

The board consists of about 15 people. Attendance at events usually ranges from 20 to 50, with lectures sometimes drawing up to a hundred attendees. In total, more than 100 students have taken part in at least one Kajira event.

Kajira is a UGent student association aimed at UGent students and young people up to age 26. To become a member, create an account on our website and sign up for an event. After 2 attendances you're considered an active member. People outside this group can apply by sending a motivation email to the board.

Our members are between 18 and 30 years old. New members need to be under 26, though you may also meet former members.

Kajira is a student association, which means our events are aimed at UGent students and young people up to age 26. People outside that group can attend after sending a motivation email to the board, which decides whether your presence fits the student-focused nature of the association. People under 18 are unfortunately not allowed. Those who've been involved for a while are of course welcome to keep attending, even after finishing their studies.

Absolutely not. Our events are fully legal and focused on education and discussion. BDSM at Kajira always respects the fundamental rights and democratic principles laid out in the Belgian Constitution and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

Our events focus on education and open discussion of BDSM. We don't practise during the events, except at specific workshops where demonstrations take place to discuss techniques and safety. The focus is always on education and safety.

Kajira organises a wide range of events:

• General events: Café evenings, movie nights, student song nights (cantus), karaoke, Halloween cocktail evenings, picnics.
• Kink-related events: Discussion evenings, bondage workshops, wax play workshops, safety-in-BDSM workshops, first-aid workshops, show and tell, lectures and symposia.
• Sports activities: Ice skating, bowling, wall climbing, self-defence.

No, Kajira doesn't hold any initiation rituals. We welcome new members informally and respectfully, with no obligations or traditional rituals.

Our events take place at various locations. After signing up you'll receive the details and location information, which we keep discreet to protect our members' privacy and safety.

Kajira has been officially recognised since 2013, though we've been active since 2011.

Getting recognised by UGent was a challenge, especially given the specific nature of our association. We worked hard to meet the requirements and expectations, and we're grateful for UGent's cooperation and understanding.

We're definitely not the "50 Shades of Grey" association. Kajira focuses on BDSM in a broader context, with an emphasis on education, respect and community-building. We create a safe and inclusive space for anyone interested in this lifestyle.