On 9th December 2025, as part of the #16Days of Activism, Centenary Action partnered with Westminster Foundation for Democracy to launch their new MINA methodology for tackling violence against women in politics (VAWP). The event brought together MPs, researchers, civil society leaders and women with lived experience to explore how the UK can confront VAWP — and strengthen our democracy in the process.
Dawn Butler MP, Co-Chair of the APPG on Women in Parliament, highlighted the rising tide of online abuse against women in public life and the urgent need for a united response to threats against our democratic institutions.
Apsana Begum MP shared powerful testimony about post-separation abuse and how the electoral system itself can be weaponised. She called for stronger institutional safeguards and duty of care, reminding us: “I won’t be the last survivor to stand or be a public figure.”
WFD’s Cecillia Makonyola introduced the MINA method, stressing that VAWP is not a niche issue but an early warning sign of democratic decline. When women with power are unsafe, women everywhere are unsafe. With 87% of women in public life reporting abuse, she urged a shift from shock to action.
Women MPs reflected on the approach:
- Leigh Ingham MP noted the unspoken expectation that online abuse is “part of the job” and called for cross-party solutions, earlier interventions, and adherence to the Nolan Principles.
- Wendy Morton MP emphasised cross-party solidarity and the need to consider the impact on MPs’ staff, who often shield elected representatives from harm, as well as the crucial pastoral role of the whips.
- Alice MacDonald MP reminded us, we must question how democratic a society can be if some women still feel unable to speak or stand.
We heard from sector experts:
- Inclusive tech expert Seyi Akiwowo highlighted how women, particularly women of colour, often face backlash as the “faces of change” and asked whether elections can truly be free and fair when violence silences some voices. Identifying patterns is essential to meaningful action.
- Dr Hannah Philips of The Jo Cox Foundation underlined that MINA offers a feminist, power-aware approach focused on shifting institutions. She pointed to progress through the Speakers’ Conference, improved policing responses, and better guidance for MPs and their families.
- Dr Sofia Collignon welcomed the evidence-based framework and stressed the need for better data to identify problems and measure change.
Throughout the event there was a strong message that addressing VAWP is about strengthening our democracy and should be an issue that matters to everyone.