Fife councillor calls for action to tackle misogyny

Raising a motion at this week's Fife Council meeting, Councillor Aude Boubaker-Calder will ask that a culture of respect, inclusivity and accountability be promoted.

The Dunfermline Central councillor said discrimination and misogyny is "all too common" within political spheres and, backed by Labour councillor Jan Wincott, has put forward the motion which she expects to be supported by colleagues from across the council.

"It is not something that is just the council," she said. "It is happening in Westminster, Holyrood and unfortunately at council level.

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"Since I got involved in politics, I have gathered increasing experiences of misogyny, discrimination, and bullying. It seems that getting elected has not changed those experiences as those behaviours have continued in the council chamber and beyond.

Councillor Aude Boubaker-Calder (Image: Fife Council)"This is my experience and the one of many other female councillors. We cannot allow such toxic conduct to persist unchallenged in our political landscape."

Cllr Boubaker-Calder said one councillor colleague had been told to "settle down hen" recently and said other comments are made off microphone.

"In politics, individuals should not have to tolerate bullying, disrespect, or belittlement, nor should they fear expressing their views, simply because they are in opposing political parties," she added.

"I firmly believe that those who hold public office should exemplify integrity and respect for all constituents and fellow representatives.

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"At the moment only 35 per cent of councillors in Scotland are women and many choose not to seek re-election due to the toxic behaviours prevalent in politics. How do we want to be representative of our society if underrepresented communities are fearing to run for elections and, if they are elected, don't want to stay after their first term?

"I hope that this motion will serve as a wake-up call for political leadership at all levels of local authorities and demonstrate the council's unwavering commitment to fostering a political environment that upholds integrity, respects diversity, and ensures equal opportunities for all."