Women and equalities minister Bridget Phillipson says racism and sexism have become “normalised” in Britain, citing increased hostility expressed online and in political discourse. She warns that young men are being drawn into violent misogyny through social media, which she describes as a “cesspit” of harmful content.
Phillipson argues that some statements and attitudes have shifted from what would previously have been unacceptable, contributing to a broader climate of abuse. She also says police are not taking violence against women and girls seriously enough, and presents challenging those norms as part of her role. Coverage focuses mainly on her concern about social media’s influence, with reporting also noting her view that Britain remains a tolerant nation while she presses for action against discrimination and misogynistic violence.
