Feminist politics and gender equality in Britain

Abstract

According to some indicators, Britain has become a more gender-equal society over the past two decades. And yet, as we argue in this article, these gains are undermined by persistent gendered inequalities and violence. Progress has been made principally in relation to what we might think of as liberal feminist demands—especially access to power. Yet even this progress is undermined by persistent and pervasive gendered violence and inequality—all of which takes place against the backdrop of the 2008 financial crash, the departure of the UK from the European Union, as well as the global COVID-19 pandemic. We recognise and welcome the presence of active and vibrant feminist groups and organisations in Britain who have campaigned creatively on a range of issues. Nonetheless, there remains much to do to advance feminist interests and to achieve gender equality for all women in British politics.