ABSTRACT
The phenomenon of online misogyny is one which poses – and continues to pose – challenges for the legal system. Given the regulatory problems which are posed by this social phenomenon, suggestions for legal reforms are worthy of consideration, not least because of the harms which are caused by such behaviours. These harms are rarely recognised by the reactive legal system. As with any area of law, there are a number of overlapping areas and, indeed, a number of conflicting priorities. This is true of online misogyny, especially in the sphere of communications law. There are a number of legal provisions which could be applied to the issue of online text-based abuse. To such an end, the legislative landscape and legal structures within the UK present one of the first hurdles to tackling this challenge. Whilst many of the communications provisions operate within either Scotland or England & Wales respectively, very few provisions are UK-wide.
