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The decision by the Scottish government to delay legislation criminalizing misogyny until after next year’s Holyrood election has sparked controversy. The government cited the need to align the proposed law with a recent Supreme Court ruling on the definition of a woman as the reason for the delay. Instead, they plan to amend existing hate crime legislation to provide protections based on sex. This move follows a recommendation from an expert group in 2022 for separate legislation specifically targeting misogyny.
The proposed Misogyny Bill includes creating new offenses such as stirring up hatred against women and misogynistic harassment. Additionally, misogyny would be considered an aggravating factor in crimes, potentially leading to harsher sentencing. Despite the delay in passing the bill, the Scottish government remains committed to addressing misogynistic abuse. First Minister John Swinney emphasized the complexity of the issue and the need to carefully navigate the implications of the Supreme Court ruling on defining gender.
In addition to postponing the misogyny legislation, the Scottish government also decided not to proceed with a new law banning conversion therapy for sexual orientation or gender identity. This decision has disappointed many LGBTQIA+ organizations, who viewed the bill as crucial for protecting vulnerable individuals from harmful practices. While the government has urged the UK to legislate on the issue, it has left open the possibility of introducing its own law within a year if necessary.
Critics have lambasted the government’s decision on both bills, with some calling it a “shameful broken promise” and a “screeching U-turn.” Scottish Conservative deputy leader Rachael Hamilton criticized the delays as part of a pattern of failed policies under First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. Despite the challenges posed by the Supreme Court ruling and complex legal considerations, the government’s handling of these important issues continues to draw scrutiny and criticism
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