The horrifying murders of Sarah Everard, Sabina Nessa, Bobbi-Anne McLeod, Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman were each reminders of the worst case scenario women fear when experiencing unwanted attention from men in public. Now, the UK government has opened a consultation asking whether public sexual harassment should be a distinct criminal offence.
A recent survey found that 71% of women of all ages in the UK have experienced some form of sexual harassment in a public space. Women spend vast amounts of energy trying to avoid and negotiate intrusions like catcalling, following, flashing and groping. These incidents too often make women feel vulnerable and in danger.
