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Evidence shows that on social media women face repeated threats of rape and sexual assault.  Black and minority ethnic people are disproportionately targeted with hate speech, violence and abuse. Women candidates at local and national level are particularly targeted. We know that this is deterring some women from standing. Yet some of those responsible for issuing these threats have then gone on to stand for election themselves.

Surely anyone who issues threats of rape of violence or who incites hatred is not fit to stand for elected office? Yet our law currently permits it and only disqualifies those with a criminal record, on grounds of bankruptcy or corrupt electoral practices (eg re political donations).  This means candidates with a track record of abusive conduct can still end up on the ballot paper.

By inviting the electorate to vote for them we are endorsing and legitimising their conduct. This has to change. We at the Fawcett Society are calling for a lifetime ban from standing for elected office to apply in these cases. It is time to defend our democracy and promote equality, not hate. Please add your name in support if you agree.  

Are you a women's rights activist? Have you set up a petition or campaign? Write a blog to tell us what you're doing to fight gender inequality, and have it featured on our website. We also want to hear from Fawcett members; tell us why you joined, and inspire others to do the same!

Adrienne wrote about her campaign for gender neutral field names on marriage certificates. She sent a link to her Fawcett blog to the General Registrar Office, and received a reply with a commitment to consider her suggested reform. She says:

"I was so pleased to be invited to write my blog. The post, and tweets from the Fawcett Society generated a lot of signatures – a highly effective way of getting a message across...My own MP has promised to follow up after I contacted him. If you can garner the support and interest of respected individuals and organisations, you can boost the strength of your message whilst gaining more knowledge of the issue."

Gabby Edlin, founder of Bloody Good Period, wrote this incredible blog for Fawcett, and saw a surge of support for her campaign as a result:

"I was so honoured to be asked to write a blog post for the Fawcett Society, an organisation I have held in high esteem for many years. I gained many new followers after the post, which in term led to a boost of donations of sanitary towels, which are so badly needed by the women we work with."