A recent report by the British Transport Police (BTP) has revealed a worrying 10% increase in recorded sexual offences on the UK’s railways, with incidents rising from 2,246 in 2023 to 2,475 in 2024. While this surge may partially reflect a growing willingness among victims to report such crimes, experts caution that these figures likely represent only a fraction of the true scale of the problem.
Despite an apparent rise in reporting, many women’s experiences of sexual offences on public transport remain unreported, obscured by a combination of fear, embarrassment, and the normalisation of such behaviour. A survey conducted by the BTP last year, which involved 2,000 respondents, revealed that over a third of women had experienced sexual harassment or assault during their commute. Yet, these incidents are vastly underreported, indicating a significant gap between lived experiences and official statistics.
The Normalisation of Sexual Harassment
One of the primary barriers to reporting sexual offences is the widespread normalisation of such behaviours in public spaces. Incidents like indecent exposure or cyberflashing are often downplayed through the language used to describe them, with terms like “flashing” or “unsolicited ‘dick pics'” trivialising what are, in fact, serious crimes. This casual terminology can diminish the perceived severity of these offences, contributing to a societal view that they are minor inconveniences rather than violations of a person’s dignity and safety.
Indecent exposure, which involves a perpetrator intentionally exposing their genitals to cause alarm or distress, is a particularly common offence, usually committed by men against women and girls. Despite its prevalence, it is frequently dismissed as a nuisance, with victims often feeling pressured to laugh it off or ignore it rather than report it as a crime.
The psychological impact of such experiences can be profound. Women who encounter indecent exposure often feel threatened and vulnerable, leading some to change their routines, avoid certain public spaces, or refrain from using public transport altogether. This avoidance behaviour illustrates the significant and lasting effects that these offences can have on women’s lives.
The Rise of Cyberflashing
Another growing concern is the rise of cyberflashing, where explicit images are sent to victims via Airdrop or Bluetooth by someone in close proximity. Although cyberflashing was only recently criminalised, it is becoming increasingly common, yet many victims remain reluctant to report it. The anonymity provided by technology enables perpetrators to act with impunity, further exacerbating victims’ feelings of vulnerability and helplessness.
Due to its recent emergence, official data on cyberflashing is limited, making it difficult to gauge the full extent of the problem. However, anecdotal evidence and victim testimonies suggest that it is a widespread issue, particularly on trains. The unsolicited receipt of an explicit image can be deeply distressing, with victims often left to wonder if the perpetrator is sitting nearby and whether they will be followed when they leave the train. This uncertainty can turn an ordinary commute into a traumatic experience, with lasting psychological consequences.
Addressing the Issue: A Call for Action
The rise in reported sexual offences on public transport has prompted renewed calls for action from campaigners, policymakers, and the public. There is growing recognition that this issue extends beyond the confines of the railway system, reflecting broader societal attitudes towards women and the persistent influence of misogyny.
To create a safer environment for women, transport providers and policymakers must engage directly with women to understand their experiences and concerns. Such consultation is crucial in developing effective prevention strategies and ensuring that public transport is safe and accessible for all.
Some measures have already been introduced to tackle the problem. The BTP has launched campaigns encouraging victims to report sexual offences and has increased its presence on trains and at stations. Additionally, the criminalisation of cyberflashing represents a significant step forward in acknowledging and addressing new forms of sexual harassment.
However, these efforts alone are insufficient. The issue of sexual harassment on public transport is deeply rooted in societal norms and behaviours that must be challenged. Education is key to this endeavour. By addressing the underlying misogyny that fuels these offences, society can work towards a future where women no longer have to fear for their safety while travelling.
As highlighted by the BTP’s report, much work remains to be done to ensure the safety of women on public transport. While the increase in reported offences may indicate growing awareness and a willingness to speak out, the reality is that many incidents remain hidden. The true scale of the problem is likely far greater than the official figures suggest.
Moving forward, it is essential that efforts to combat sexual harassment on public transport are sustained and intensified. This will require a multi-faceted approach, involving law enforcement, transport providers, educators, and the broader public. Only by working together can we create a transport system that is safe and welcoming for everyone.
The rise in reported sexual offences serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that remain, but it also presents an opportunity to effect meaningful change. With continued vigilance, education, and a commitment to addressing the root causes of sexual harassment, it is possible to build a future where women can travel without fear.
As this issue continues to evolve, ongoing monitoring and reporting will be crucial in assessing the effectiveness of current measures and identifying areas for improvement. The safety of women on public transport must remain a priority, and it is incumbent upon all of us to ensure that these efforts do not falter.
