Misogyny Matters: Fawcett Conference 2026

Date: Saturday 13 June 2026

Time and Place: 10.00am – 4.30pm, Central London and Online

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In 2026, we have seen relentless evidence of the devastating effects of unchecked misogyny: from the Epstein files to the Grok scandal, so-called “rape academies” and the toxic ‘manosphere’, all operating in plain sight. Misogyny shapes women’s lives from girlhood to older age, across our homes, workplaces and public spaces.

This conference asks:

  • Is misogyny really on the rise, or has it become mainstreamed and normalised?

  • What does the rolling back of women’s rights look like in practice, and why is it happening?

  • Crucially, how do we respond collectively and strategically?

Across the day, we will explore:

  • The prevalence and drivers of misogyny

  • Its human, social, political and economic consequences

  • The solutions, resistance and routes to change that centre women’s lived realities

Join us in June, in person or online and be part of the conversation and the solutions, and to meet like-minded women and male allies.

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Conference Programme

Arrival and Registration

Start the day with refreshments, networking and informal conversation. Information about Fawcett membership, local groups and ways to stay involved will be available throughout the morning.


Welcome and Opening Remarks

Opening reflections on the day’s themes, why tackling misogyny matters now, and how the conference will explore its impact across home, work and public life.

Speakers

  • Penny East, Chief Executive, Fawcett Society


Keynote Address

Jess Asato MP, Government Adviser on Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) to the Department of Health and Social Care

A keynote speech on online safety, including the Grok scandal, public discourse and women’s participation in public life.


Setting the Scene: Is Misogyny on the Rise?

Panel Discussion and Audience Q&A

An exploration of how misogyny is evolving in public life, politics, media and online spaces, and what recent events reveal about power, accountability and attitudes towards women and girls.

Chair

  • Helen Rumbelow, Journalist and Columnist, The Times

Panellists

  • Professor Akwugo Emejulu FAcSS, Chair in Sociological Studies, University of Sheffield

  • Professor Clare McGlynn KC, Author and Leading Expert on Violence Against Women and Girls

  • Additional speaker to be annouced


Misogyny as Radicalisation

Presentation

Dr Sajjan Gohel explores how misogyny operates as a radicalising force online and its links to wider patterns of extremism and violence.

Speaker

  • Dr Sajjan Gohel, International Security Director, Asia-Pacific Foundation and Visiting Lecturer, LSE


Coffee Break

Refreshments and informal discussion.


Young Women Speak

In partnership with Young Women’s Trust

Young women share their experiences of misogyny and inequality, reflecting on how it shapes safety, opportunity and everyday life. This opening session centres lived experience and sets the tone for the day’s discussions.


Misogyny at Home

Panel Discussion and Audience Q&A

This session explores the realities of misogyny within the home, including unequal domestic labour, economic control, abuse and violence, and the structural inequalities that underpin them.

Chair

  • Marisa Bate, Feminist Author and Journalist, Stylist

Panellists

  • Farah Nazeer, Chief Executive, Women’s Aid

  • Ghadah Alnessaer, Executive Director, Imkaan

  • Dr Daniella Jenkins, Executive Director, Women’s Budget Group


Lunch

networking and opportunities to connect with Fawcett local groups and fellow attendees.


Video from the Minister for Equalities

A short video message from Seema Malhotra MP, Minister for Equalities, recognising the role of Fawcett members and answering questions on workplace equality.


Misogyny at Work: Equality, Power and Financial Freedom

Panel Discussion and Audience Q&A

A discussion on misogyny in the workplace, from pay and progression to safety, autonomy and economic independence, and what meaningful equality at work requires today.

Chair

  • Maryam Yaqub, AI Lead, Fawcett Society

Panellists

  • Professor Baroness Nargund, Founder and Trustee, Health Equality Foundation and Honorary Professor of Women’s Health, City St Georges University of London

  • Melissa Blisset, Senior Consultant – Pay Gap Analytics and Financial Wellbeing, Barnett Waddingham

  • Rachel Grocott, Chief Executive, Pregnant Then Screwed

  • Michelle Codrington-Rogers, Anti-Racism Officer, Trades Union Congress


Misogyny in Public Life: Online and Offline Harms

Panel Discussion and Audience Q&A

This session examines misogyny in politics, public spaces and digital platforms, and its impact on women’s safety, visibility and participation.

Chair

  • Penny East, Chief Executive, Fawcett Society

Panellists

  • Jennifer Nadel, Founder, Compassion in Politics

  • Professor Olga Jurasz, Director, Centre for Protecting Women Online, The Open University

  • Maudlyn Akosua Awuku, Policy Advisor & 50:50 Parliament Advocate. Founder, Anijie Global Foundation

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Babies in arms are welcome, and we fully support breastfeeding parents throughout the venue

Due to the sensitive nature of some discussions we recommend attendees are 16+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.

 A dedicated quiet area and large outdoor space will be available throughout the event for anyone who would like to take a break from the discussions.

With support from Barnett Waddingham                    Products supplied by mooncup