Survey shows 49% believe UK is more dangerous for women

A recent survey shows that half of the UK population believes it has become more dangerous for women and girls in the last five years. The End Violence Against Women Coalition (EVAW) commissioned this poll, highlighting concerns about rising misogyny, especially among young people. The survey indicates that 79% of women want the government to take stronger action against violence towards women and girls (VAWG). Andrea Simon, director of EVAW, emphasized the need for better regulation of tech companies that spread harmful online content and better education for young people about relationships and consent. Almost half of all respondents agree that attitudes toward consent and equality are getting worse as misogynistic influencers grow more influential. Simon urged for more efforts to tackle the root causes of VAWG, stating that societal change requires more than just criminal justice measures. Since Labour's election pledge to cut VAWG in half last July, there have been calls for more comprehensive actions. Simon expressed that focusing only on crime prevention is not enough; investment in support services and regulation of online platforms is also essential. The poll found that 77% of respondents believe tech companies should increase their efforts to enhance the safety of women and girls online. The government has been urged to address the responsibilities of these multi-billion-pound companies in this context. The regulator Ofcom has recently issued guidance for tech companies aimed at reducing harm to women and girls online. The government has yet to respond.