Helena Kennedy Appointed Chair of U.K. Watchdog to Combat Industry Harassment
Helena Kennedy, a prominent barrister and member of the British Parliament, has been appointed as the chair of a new U.K. watchdog aimed at eradicating harassment and abuse in the creative industries. This initiative, the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA), has garnered widespread support from leaders across the creative sector and government, signaling a significant step forward in addressing these pervasive issues.
The Formation of CIISA
Background and Necessity
The creation of CIISA comes in response to numerous allegations of harassment and abuse within the creative industries. High-profile cases, such as those involving Russell Brand and incidents on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, have underscored the urgent need for an independent body to uphold and improve standards of behavior.
Support from the Creative Community
British stars like Keira Knightley, Cara Delevingne, Emerald Fennell, and Rebecca Ferguson have publicly supported the establishment of CIISA. In an open letter, they urged creative organizations to contribute funding to ensure the watchdog’s success. The chief of Bectu, Britain’s Broadcasting, Entertainment, Communications, and Theatre Union, has also backed the initiative, stating that CIISA’s launch is expected in the coming years as it secures necessary funding.
Helena Kennedy’s Role and Vision
An Esteemed Leader
Helena Kennedy’s appointment as chair of CIISA brings a wealth of experience and dedication to human rights and social justice. A Labor member of the House of Lords, Kennedy has recently been honored with the Order of the Thistle in Scotland for her extensive work both in the U.K. and internationally.
Kennedy’s Commitment
Kennedy emphasized the importance of CIISA, stating, “A high proportion of those working in the arts and in other cultural fields are self-employed and especially vulnerable to abusive and exploitative conduct. A carefully-wrought framework is essential to create fair and respectful treatment for everyone in these working environments. I also think the CIISA could provide a template for other sectors where such problems are also rife.”
CIISA’s Goals and Objectives
Addressing Vulnerabilities
CIISA aims to protect self-employed individuals in the creative industries who are particularly susceptible to harassment and exploitation. By establishing a robust framework, CIISA seeks to ensure fair and respectful treatment across these sectors.
Creating a Safe Reporting Environment
Research conducted by CIISA revealed that 53% of respondents did not feel confident reporting concerns, with 75% fearing negative career impacts and 67% doubting their concerns would be resolved. CIISA’s mission includes creating a safe and effective reporting environment to address these fears and ensure accountability.
Endorsements and Support
Time’s Up U.K.
Heather Rabbatts and James Bond producer Barbara Broccoli, founders of Time’s Up U.K., have expressed their support for CIISA and Kennedy’s appointment. They noted, “[We] founded Time’s Up U.K. back in 2018, focused on making practical interventions to bring about change in the industry dealing specifically with bullying, harassment, and abuse. The idea of creating a new standards authority started its journey with Time’s Up U.K. and has been in development with the creative industries round table and many other partners over these last few years. We are absolutely delighted that Baroness Helena Kennedy is our inaugural chair to launch CIISA this year.”
Government and Industry Leaders
The creation of CIISA has been endorsed by leaders across the creative sector and government, recognizing the critical need for an independent authority to combat harassment and abuse. This support underscores the importance of establishing clear standards and accountability within the industry.
Helena Kennedy’s Notable Achievements
Human Rights Advocacy
Kennedy’s extensive work in human rights includes serving as the director of the International Bar Association’s Institute of Human Rights. She has been instrumental in developing the defense of PTSD in U.K. courts and advocating against violence towards women and children.
International Efforts
In 2012, Kennedy led the Equality and Human Rights Commission Inquiry in Scotland addressing human trafficking. In 2021, she played a crucial role in evacuating 102 women judges and prosecutors from Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover, securing their safety through fundraising and logistical efforts.
Current Initiatives
Kennedy is currently working with Ukraine’s President Zelensky on war crimes and the alleged abduction of Ukrainian children by Russian forces. Her commitment to justice and human rights continues to make a significant impact both in the U.K. and globally.
