Women experience harassment and rape in Scottish folk scene, says report

A new study from the University of Glasgow reveals a disturbing reality for women in the Scottish folk music scene: widespread harassment and sexual violence. The research, based on a survey of 409 women – primarily musicians, teachers, and students – found that a staggering 81% had experienced some form of abuse. This investigation shines a light on a deeply concerning pattern of behavior within a traditionally close-knit community.

The Scope of the Problem

The abuse reported ranged from sexual comments and stalking to sexual assault and rape. Researchers found that the majority of perpetrators were fellow musicians. Specifically, 75% of respondents reported experiencing sexual questions or remarks, while 51% were subjected to unsolicited sexual advances. A significant 17% reported having been sexually assaulted or raped. The study highlights that these incidents were often not isolated, with 78% of women reporting multiple experiences of harassment and abuse.

Did You Know? The research was conducted by the Scottish Centre for Crime and Justice Research at the University of Glasgow.

A Culture of Normalization

The study points to a male-dominated environment within the Scottish folk music scene where harmful behaviors have become normalized. According to Professor Michele Burman, a co-author of the report, many forms of sexual violence and harassment were rarely formally acknowledged or met with meaningful consequences. This lack of accountability has led some women to leave the scene entirely, resulting in a loss of female talent.

Musician Josie Duncan, who has worked in Glasgow for ten years and been a musician since a young age, echoed these concerns. While expressing her love for the traditional music scene, she revealed she had turned down “pivotal opportunities” because she deemed potential collaborators “unsafe.” She emphasized that feeling safe should be the norm, not the exception.

Implications and Potential Next Steps

Dr. Kelly Johnson, who led the project team, emphasized that the challenges faced by the Scottish folk scene are not unique, but rather reflect a broader issue of sexual violence and harassment across the music industry and society as a whole. Addressing this requires recognizing the experiences of those affected and treating sexual violence and harassment as a workplace issue.

Expert Insight: The findings underscore the critical need for systemic change within the music industry, moving beyond awareness to concrete actions that protect musicians and foster a safe, respectful environment.

The Musicians’ Union has welcomed the report, noting it represents the largest collection of evidence on this issue to date. Dr. Diljeet Bhachu, equality, diversity and inclusion officer, highlighted the difficulty of tackling the problem within the largely freelance structure of the folk music scene, comprised of numerous independent organizations, festivals, venues, and promoters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of women surveyed reported experiencing some form of abuse?

81% of the 409 women surveyed reported experiencing some form of abuse.

What types of abuse were reported in the study?

Reported incidents included sexual comments, stalking, sexual assault, and rape.

What did researchers suggest as a potential solution?

Researchers recommended codes of conduct, working agreements, designated safeguarding personnel at events, and discussions around gender equality and respect within the community.

As the findings are discussed at an industry event during Glasgow’s Celtic Connections music festival, will this report catalyze meaningful change and create a more secure and equitable environment for women in the Scottish folk music scene?