Warning: This article contains material some readers may find distressing.
The British Armed Forces have long been celebrated for their discipline, bravery, and service to the nation. Yet, beneath this proud exterior lies a darker reality: a culture of misogyny, sexual abuse, and systemic failure to protect servicewomen. Over the years, numerous scandals and personal testimonies have exposed a toxic environment where abuse is not only rife but often ignored or excused.
A History of Scandal
The issue of sexual abuse within the military is not new. In 2015, a landmark report by the Defence Select Committee revealed widespread allegations of sexual harassment and assault. The report found that 90% of female personnel had experienced some form of sexual harassment, with many fearing retaliation if they spoke out.
One of the most high-profile cases involved Corporal Anne-Marie Ellement, who took her own life in 2011 after alleging she had been raped by two colleagues. An inquest into her death in 2014 found that the “lingering effects” of the rape and the bullying she endured afterward contributed to her decision to end her life. Her family fought for years to hold the military accountable, leading to a belated apology from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in 2016.
The Case of Jaysley Beck
In December 2021, the death of 19-year-old Gunner Jaysley Beck brought the issue back into the spotlight. Beck took her own life after enduring sexual harassment and assault during her time in the Army. An inquest into her death in 2023 found that she had been failed by the military after reporting the abuse.
Her death prompted an outpouring of stories from servicewomen on social media, using the hashtag #MeTooMilitary. Hundreds of women shared their experiences of sexual harassment, assault, and the culture of impunity that allowed such behaviour to persist.
Survivors’ Stories
Jane*, who served in the British Army for nearly 20 years, is one of many survivors who have come forward. She was raped by a colleague during a night out. When she reported the attack, she was accused of flirting and drinking too much. Messages exchanged by her superiors, calling her a “whore,” were later discovered. Despite an investigation by the Royal Military Police, the case never went to court martial due to what she was told was an “unrealistic chance of conviction.”
Hayley*, a new recruit, witnessed a female colleague being sexually assaulted by a senior officer. When she reported it, she was dragged by her coat, screamed at, and warned never to speak of the incident again. Months later, she was assaulted by a male colleague who climbed into her bed. The Royal Military Police dismissed her case, asking if she had been drinking or encouraged the assault.
Michelle, who served for 11 years, including active duty in Afghanistan, described a culture where sexual harassment was commonplace. “I’ve had my breasts grabbed by people… Guys have looked up my skirt to see if I’m wearing underwear,” she said. “Disgusting stuff like that.”
A Broken Justice System
Campaigners have long argued that the military justice system is ill-equipped to handle cases of sexual abuse. Emma Norton, a lawyer and founder of the Centre for Military Justice, highlighted the stark disparity in conviction rates.
“The conviction rate for cases that get to court martial for rapes and serious sexual assault is far lower than the equivalent figures in the Crown Court,” she said. “That, on the face of it, is a serious difference that is completely unjustifiable.”
In 2021, a legal challenge sought to force the government to transfer rape investigations in the armed forces to civilian courts. However, the proposal was voted down in Parliament. Johnny Mercer, a former defence minister who initially opposed the move, has since admitted he was wrong.
“I should have argued harder for serious and sexual offences to be taken away from the MoD to civilian police,” he told Sky News. “Now is the time to make that change.”
A Culture of Impunity
The problem extends beyond individual cases to a broader culture of misogyny and impunity. A 2021 report by the House of Commons Defence Committee found that the military’s handling of sexual misconduct was “woefully inadequate.” The report cited a lack of accountability, inadequate support for victims, and a failure to address the root causes of the problem.
One former servicewoman, who wished to remain anonymous, described being groped by a senior officer during a training exercise. When she reported it, she was told to “toughen up” and “not make a fuss.” Another woman recalled being subjected to sexist jokes and comments on a daily basis, with no recourse to address the behaviour.
Calls for Reform
In recent years, there have been growing calls for reform. Labour has backed the proposal to transfer serious and sexual offences to civilian courts, while campaigners have urged the government to take decisive action.
The MoD has pledged to address the issue, stating: “There is no place for bullying, harassment, or discrimination in the military. This government is totally committed to making the reforms that are needed to stamp out inappropriate behaviour and hold people to account.”
However, critics argue that progress has been slow and insufficient. Many servicewomen feel betrayed by the institution they once trusted.
“I had some of the best and also worst times of my life… that’s hard to reconcile,” said Hayley. “I don’t want to look back and feel sorry for myself, but I feel the younger version of myself was severely let down by the people who were in authority at the time. It’s not acceptable for this to be happening.”
A Legacy of Pain
The stories of Jane, Hayley, Michelle, and countless others highlight the urgent need for systemic change within the British Armed Forces. From the death of Anne-Marie Ellement to the tragic case of Jaysley Beck, the pattern of abuse and failure is clear.
As survivors continue to speak out and campaigners push for reform, the question remains: will the military finally confront its toxic culture and deliver justice for those who have been failed?
The time for change is now.
Names have been changed.
Support Resources:
- In the UK, anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected].
