Baroness Helena Kennedy KC, who led an independent expert group advocating for new criminal offences targeting prejudice against women, expressed disappointment over the Scottish government’s decision to shelve a new law criminalizing misogyny. The move, according to Baroness Kennedy, is seen as part of a broader retreat in response to “anti-woke” sentiments. The government cited lack of time to draft the new law before the 2026 Holyrood election, following a recent Supreme Court ruling on the definition of a woman.
The proposed misogyny bill aimed at promoting respect, dignity, and equal treatment for women in public spaces akin to men. While acknowledging the government’s need to assess the implications of the Supreme Court ruling, Baroness Kennedy highlighted the importance of addressing societal attitudes towards women. The bill, recommended by a working group chaired by Baroness Kennedy and supported by former first minister Nicola Sturgeon, included provisions for new offences such as stirring up hatred against women and misogynistic harassment.
The government’s decision to pivot towards amending existing hate crime legislation in light of the Supreme Court ruling has been met with criticism and disappointment. The move towards addressing misogyny and protecting individuals from discriminatory abuse in the current parliamentary term reflects the government’s stance on navigating complexities arising from legal definitions. The shelving of the misogyny bill, along with plans to ban conversion therapy, signifies a shift in priorities and strategy, drawing mixed reactions from political parties and advocacy groups.
The Scottish government’s decision to set aside the misogyny bill and instead focus on amending existing hate crime laws marks a significant development in the ongoing discourse surrounding gender-based discrimination and legal protections. The nuanced approach taken by the government in response to evolving legal interpretations underscores the challenges of enacting legislation that addresses the intersection of gender identity, equality, and societal attitudes. Moving forward, the government’s commitment to adapting to changing circumstances and addressing gaps in legal frameworks will be closely scrutinized by stakeholders and the public
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