Study Reveals High Rates of Sexual Harassment and Discrimination for Women in the Music Industry

In a revealing study conducted by the Musicians’ Union and Help Musicians, findings indicate a troubling environment for women in the music sector. The “Women Musicians Insight Report,” as covered by Rachel Freeman on EDM.com, sheds light on the challenges including sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and financial inequities faced by female musicians.

According to the research, which surveyed over 2,500 female musicians, 50% have encountered gender discrimination, and a significant one-third have been victims of sexual harassment within their careers. These issues not only pose immediate concerns but also significantly hinder the professional advancement of women in the industry.

The report also highlights issues of age discrimination, showing that while women make up 47% of musicians aged between 16-55, this percentage drops to 26% for those over the age of 55, suggesting that older women face even greater challenges in maintaining visibility and opportunities in the music scene.

“Despite the strides we’ve made, the ‘Women Musicians Insight Report’ underscores the persistent hurdles women face in the music industry, from harassment to financial disparities,” stated Sarah Woods, Chief Executive of Help Musicians and Music Minds Matter, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to dismantle these barriers.

Nadia Khan, founder of Women In CTRL, also expressed her concerns about the findings, highlighting the urgency for actionable changes. “The persistence of these issues, as shown by the UK Musicians’ Census, calls for immediate and decisive actions to ensure gender equity and prevent these patterns from recurring,” Khan remarked.

These findings call for a united front in the music industry to address and mitigate gender-based biases and create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all musicians. The full “Women Musicians Insight Report” can be accessed for a deeper understanding of the issues at hand and the proposed recommendations for change.

As the music industry continues to evolve, it’s crucial that these discussions lead to tangible actions, ensuring a safer and more inclusive space for women and all musicians to thrive.