UK plans to classify extreme misogyny as terrorism: Here's why
The United Kingdom is planning to categorize extreme misogyny as a form of terrorism, under new government proposals. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has initiated a review of the counter-terrorism strategy, with a focus on violence against women and girls. The objective is to identify potential shortcomings in existing laws and investigate emerging ideologies that promote such violence.
Teachers to report suspected cases of extreme misogyny
The proposed changes would legally obligate teachers to report any students they suspect of harboring extreme misogynistic views, to Prevent, the UK's counter-terrorism program. "For too long, governments have failed to address the rise in extremism, both online and on our streets, and we've seen the number of young people radicalised online grow. Hateful incitement of all kinds fractures and frays the very fabric of our communities and our democracy," Cooper told the Telegraph.
Cooper addresses rise in extremism
The Home Secretary has instructed her department to conduct an analytical sprint on extremism, to understand its trends better, identify effective disruption methods, and uncover any policy gaps. "That work will underpin a new strategic approach to countering extremism from government, working closely with communities to build consensus and impetus for our plans," she said. The review is anticipated to be finished this autumn and unveiled by the Home Office next year.
Online influencers' role in promoting extreme misogyny
Concerns have been raised about online influencers like Andrew Tate, who could potentially radicalize young men into extreme misogyny. Speaking about harmful content online, Deputy Chief Constable Maggie Blyth described the online influencing of young boys as "quite terrifying." Tate, a controversial British-American influencer, gained recognition after appearing on Big Brother in 2016. He is currently awaiting trial in Romania over allegations of rape, human trafficking, and organizing a criminal group to sexually exploit women, all of which he denies.
Rise in school referrals due to Tate's influence
In 2022, counter-extremism workers reported an increase in cases referred to them by schools, worried about Tate's influence. Incidents included verbal harassment of female teachers or students and outbursts mirroring the influencer's views. A frontline worker handling cases described Tate as "toxic misogyny on steroids." In its manifesto, the Labour government said it would introduce new domestic abuse professionals to 999 control rooms and rape investigation teams to every force in England and Wales to provide early prevention and protection.
