UN WOMEN REPORT SHOWS WHY WE NEED SHOUT-UP! UK

In 2021 UN Women and YouGov survey revealed the alarming prevalence of sexual harassment in public places in the UK, especially among young women.

The report begins by addressing the challenge of defining sexual harassment and how various definitions may contribute to under-reporting. It then explores the prevalence of sexual harassment in the UK, the most common locations for such incidents, and the types of harassment, including online harassment.

The report also examines the current reporting frequency, barriers to reporting, and why many incidents go unreported despite their prevalence. It acknowledges the positive impact of increased public awareness and campaigns like #MeToo and #TimesUp.

Key Findings

1. Almost all (86%) women aged 18-24 in the UK have experienced some form of sexual harassment in a public space, highlighting the severity of the issue.

2. Among women of all ages, 1.71% have encountered sexual harassment in public spaces.

3. A significant number of women do not report incidents, with the main reasons being that they believe the incident is not serious enough (55%) or they have little faith that reporting would help (45%).

4. A substantial percentage (44%) of women indicate that having confidence in the reporting system's effectiveness would encourage them to report.

Recommendations

1. Building public trust in the reporting system is essential. Women should believe that reporting incidents will lead to meaningful change, and their reports will be treated anonymously. The system should also take appropriate action based on the data from reports to demonstrate that reporting has consequences.

2. Strengthen the reporting processes to make it easier for women to understand what can be reported and how. This should include providing convenient reporting channels, the option to speak with a woman police officer, and support throughout the reporting process.

3. Shift public attitudes away from viewing those who report sexual harassment as victims. Encourage a cultural change where reporting is seen as a positive action, leading to a virtuous circle where more people report when they see others doing so. Provide progress updates on efforts to mitigate harassment to the public.

The report suggests the following steps to address the issue effectively:

1. Encourage leaders and decision-makers to gather comprehensive data on what can be reported and how reporting can be done. The government should work with local authorities to facilitate data collection. Create more accessible reporting channels with survivors' needs in mind.

2. Bring together local grassroots campaigns and authorities to develop a national action plan that covers all regions. Focus on changing societal attitudes about acceptable behavior and intolerance of sexual harassment.

3. Diversify the methods for addressing reports, emphasizing the importance of legislation and emergency services but also focusing on prevention. Ensure that these solutions are visible to the public, demonstrating that their voices are heard and action is being taken.

WHY WE NEED PROJECTS LIKE SHOUT-UP!

The report emphasises the need to change perceptions about sexual harassment and create a more reliable and trustworthy reporting system to increase reporting and prevent future violence against women. The recommendations call for a collaborative effort between government, local authorities, grassroots campaigns, and the public to create a safer and more inclusive public space.