Claire McGing: Violence against women in politics is a rising global problem

Violence and abuse should never be the price that women pay to be in politics on equal terms with men, writes Claire McGing

Social Democrats TD Holly Cairns has spoken out about being the victim of sexist comments. File picture: Gareth Chaney/Collins

This week, the Irish Examiner reported on the frightening experiences of women TDs who have been subjected to, or threatened with, sexual harassment. These experiences are not unique to being a woman in Irish politics, with numerous studies showing that violence against women in politics is a rising global phenomenon.

Women have made significant inroads into elected office in recent years – largely due to the introduction of gender quotas – nonetheless, their presence has spurred multiple forms of sexual violence including online abuse, verbal harassment, stalking, intimidation, unwelcome sexual advances and acts of physical or sexual assault.