UK government rejects recommendations made by Misogyny in Music report
Earlier in the year, a report by the Women and Equalities Committee investigated issues of misogyny in the music industry and made a series of suggestions to improve the landscape for women. The UK government has now responded to the report, rejecting their recommendations.
The report found that issues of sexual harassment, abuse and reduced opportunity in the music industry are still rife, suggesting that women face “endemic” misogyny and calling the sector a “boys’ club.” Specific issues such as non-disclosure agreements and the prevalence of freelance working were highlighted.
A series of recommendations were made to the government in an effort to change the situation for women working in the industry. They suggested legislative amendments to protect freelance workers and asked the government to “legislate to impose a duty on employers to protect workers from sexual harassment by third parties.”
The report concluded that the “behaviour of men” was the main problem, subsequently asking the government to educate boys in schools about issues of misogyny and harassment.
A number of artists have since spoken out in support of the report. Self Esteem said she felt validated but disappointed by the findings of the report, while Black Honey singer Izzy Baxter Phillips shared a statement about their experience of misogyny in the industry.
Now, the UK government has responded to the report, rejecting the suggestions made by the Women and Equalities Committee. While the response opened with the statement that “everyone should be able to work in the music industry without being subject to misogyny and discrimination,” the government will not be taking on the recommendations made to them.
Several organisations and artists have already spoken out about the decision, including the Musicians Union, who wrote that they were “deeply disappointed and shocked that the Committee’s recommendations have been rejected in this way.”
While the government’s decision not to act on the report’s recommendations is not surprising, it is disappointing nonetheless. The response only reinforces the findings of the report, confirming that women in the industry are not currently receiving the support they need.
The Women and Equalities Committee will host a follow-up evidence session on misogyny in music today, April 24th. Find details below.
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