Scots men urged to change behaviour on International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

Violence against women and girls is a stain on society and must be eradicated, Scottish Labour has insisted.

It comes as the party indicate that a “watershed moment” has been reached and urged men to change their behaviour.

The issue was highlighted on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

It is also the start of the UN’s 16 days of activism against gender-based violence.

Scottish Labour is seeking to gather views on a range of issues relating to violence against women and girls as part of a new consultation.

It includes consideration of online crime, domestic crime, men’s responsibility, street harassment and the experience of women in the justice system.

The consultation was developed by Scottish Labour MSPs Pauline McNeill and Katy Clark.

They are seeking to hear from experts, as well as those who have experienced violence against women and girls, in order to help better inform policy making.

“Violence against women and girls is a stain on our society and must be eradicated,” said McNeil.

“For too long, many women and girls have been forced to accept a level of harassment and insecurity in their daily life. This is completely unacceptable.

“As a society we have reached a watershed moment where we must say – enough is enough.”

McNeill explained that women in Scotland “cannot face this alone”, as she underlined the role that men have to play in changing society.

She said: “Scottish Labour is dedicated to building a brighter, fairer and safer future for the women and girls of Scotland.

“That’s why we are launching this consultation to learn more about what can be done to end violence against women and girls.

“The women of Scotland cannot face this alone – it is down to men to change their behaviour and for policy makers to lead the way in changing our society.”