Fox has a history of derogatory and sexist language towards women journalists

Location: United Kingdom, London
Date: May 1, 2024

Women Press Freedom stands in solidarity with Narinder Kaur, the recent target of actor-turned-politician Laurence Fox, who callously shared an indecent image of her, an illegal act in the UK. This act of public shaming and intimidation is a stark reminder of the pervasive misogyny and sexism that still exists within the media and political spheres. We express our gratitude for the swift response of law enforcement, acknowledging this important step towards justice. However, we emphasize that this investigation must lead to full accountability to ensure that such a violation of privacy and dignity does not go unpunished. We further demand that Fox issue a public apology for his reprehensible actions and face the appropriate repercussions for his behavior.

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"I'm going through hell, especially being in the Asian community. The shame is overwhelming, I feel mortified. The fact that he has now posted it means it will never go away," Kaur shared with Women Press Freedom.

Fox, who has a history of employing derogatory and sexist language toward women journalists, shared an upskirt photo of Kaur, targeting her and fellow TV personality Leilani Dowding. 

“I know people are saying not to feel embarrassed and mortified, but I am. I’m so incredibly upset that people are looking at my privates and laughing. It’s unimaginably mortifying,” Kaur added.

The Metropolitan Police have confirmed their ongoing investigation under the Voyeurism (Offences) Act 2019, which criminalizes the act of operating equipment or recording an image under another person's clothing without consent, where the intent is sexual gratification or to cause humiliation, distress, or alarm. The maximum sentence, if found guilty, is two years in prison.

Fox has stood by his decision to share the controversial image.

This incident is not isolated, as Women Press Freedom documented that on September 26, 2023, GB News took disciplinary action against Fox for derogatory, sexist comments made about journalist Ava Evans during a live discussion. Fox was last week ordered to pay £180,000 in damages in a libel case involving two people he falsely claimed were pedophiles.

Fox’s ongoing pattern of behavior, including derogatory and sexist remarks toward women journalists, highlights the systemic nature of such harassment. This incident underscores the critical need for a respectful and responsible online culture and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of ethical standards.

Women Press Freedom commends the Metropolitan Police for their prompt action and stands in unwavering solidarity with Narinder Kaur. We insist on a thorough investigation, appropriate legal consequences, and a public apology from Laurence Fox. We also call on social media platforms and regulatory authorities to enforce strict measures to prevent such reprehensible behavior in the future.

Women Press Freedom is an initiative by The Coalition For Women In Journalism

The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.

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