WE WON: Fawcett complaint about Clarkson column upheld on basis of sexism

1 July 2023 


For the first time ever, the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO) has upheld a complaint on the basis of sexism.

Of the 25,100 received, IPSO investigated only two complaints about Jeremy Clarkson’s column about Meghan Markle in The Sun – those from the Fawcett Society, the UK’s leading gender equality membership charity, and the WILDE Foundation. Today, we announce that Fawcett’s complaint has been upheld.

This is a victory for all Fawcett members, who today have succeeded in holding The Sun to account and called out misogyny in the media. Become a member and join our movement for change.


Jemima Olchawski, Chief Executive of the Fawcett Society, said:

The Fawcett Society and WILDE foundation have made history with our complaint against The Sun for its publication of Jeremy Clarkson’s vile and offensive column about the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle.

Since it was established in 2014 IPSO has never upheld a complaint about sexism – and that changes today. This landmark decision is a real opportunity for our media to catch up with what women have known for years – misogyny and hate are not acceptable and they can no longer be dressed up as satire or banter. Misogyny that normalises violence, and coverage that blames women who experience violence, have no place in our biggest national newspapers, or anywhere in our society. Today’s decision will help to elevate the state of public discourse about women and tackle misogyny in our media. Editors must take note and ensure their processes are fit for purpose in the twenty first century. There must be a thorough and transparent investigation into how on earth these toxic comments made it onto the pages of one of our biggest newspapers.

We are extremely proud to have represented Fawcett's members and to stand alongside the thousands of people who complained about this article. Today’s outcome demonstrates the strength of women and the change we can make – together. To those who have been horrified by this hate-filled article and inspired in the possibility for change we say, join us as Fawcett and be a part of the movement fighting for all women to be truly equal. 

Harriet Harman, incoming Chair of the Fawcett Society, said:

Women are no longer prepared to endure the sexism that generations of women have been subjected to. Fawcett will be vigilant about sexism in the media and challenge it wherever it appears. This is a big step forward for women in the battle against sexism in the media.

This work is only possible with the support of Fawcett members. Join us in taking down misogyny in all areas of public life.

What we achieved together:

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