Inside the epidemic of abuse against female MPs
A national study reveals that 90 percent of female politicians in Australia face online abuse, with a significant portion escalating into real-world threats. The report emphasizes the gendered nature of this harassment, which often includes sexualized violence and threats against families.
Why it matters
This epidemic of abuse poses a serious threat to democratic participation and the safety of women in public life.
Some 90 per cent of female politicians in Australia are experiencing online abuse – and almost half of this may translate into real-world danger.
“Male politicians might get, ‘You’re incompetent, you’re stupid.’ And they may also get death threats,” says researcher Julie Posetti. “But men are not threatened with being raped to death … nor are nudification apps being used against men.” Illustration by Marija Ercegovac Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items.
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Share A A A In a single week last month, police investigated four separate cases, in some instances alleged cases, of online abuse against Australian female politicians.
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