UK to train teachers to tackle misogyny as part of plan to fight violence against women

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA)—Teachers across England will be trained to identify and challenge misogynistic attitudes in the classroom under a new UK government strategy aimed at halving violence against women and girls within the next decade.

The long-awaited plans place a strong emphasis on preventing the radicalization of boys and young men.

Under the strategy, pupils will receive expanded education on consent, healthy relationships, and the risks of sharing intimate images online.

Schools will also be encouraged to help students identify positive role models and challenge myths that normalize control, coercion, or hostility towards women.

High-risk students will be referred for additional support, including a behavioral program designed to confront prejudices against women and girls.

Teachers will be given specialist training to recognize warning signs of misogyny and intervene before patterns of behavior become entrenched.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a statement that the measures are intended to tackle what he described as the “toxic ideas” increasingly shaping young people’s attitudes.

“Every parent should be able to trust that their daughter is safe at school, online and in her relationships,” Starmer said.

“But too often, misogyny is taking hold early and going unchallenged. This government is stepping in sooner – backing teachers, calling out harmful behavior and intervening when warning signs appear,” he added.

According to the domestic abuse charity Reducing the Risk, nearly 40% of teenagers in relationships experience some form of abuse.

Ministers have also pointed to the growing influence of online figures who promote misogynistic views.

A recent YouGov poll found that almost one in five boys aged 13 to 15 in the UK held a positive opinion of Andrew Tate, a social media influencer who has described himself as a misogynist and is facing criminal investigations in multiple countries.