Keira Knightley and Naomie Harris back calls for a UK anti-harassment agency
Keira Knightley and Naomie Harris have joined calls for the creation of an Independent Standards Authority (ISA) to address bullying and harassment in the entertainment industry.
The panel would conduct inquiries within the UK sector, offer arbitration to survivors who do not want a formal inquiry and help shape best practice.
Supporters say it would help protect freelancers, the self-employed and those on short-term or informal contracts.
We all have the right to work in safe, respectful spaces where everyone’s dignity is upheldKeira Knightly
The idea was proposed by the UK anti-harassment and bullying campaign group Time’s Up, which was launched at the Baftas in February 2018.
Representatives from the group and non-profit organization Creative UK advise across sectors of the entertainment and arts industries including music, television, film, theater and fashion.
Knightley said: “For anyone who wants to fulfill their creative potential, there must be no fear or disrespect of any kind. We all have the right to work in safe, respectful spaces where everyone’s dignity is upheld. I believe that the ISA is an important step in contributing to this.”
Bond star Harris said: “No one should go to work afraid of harassment, bullying and abuse. In order for everyone to have their voice and reach their full potential, our work environment must be safe and respectful. I believe that the ISA is an important step in contributing to this.”
Both actresses have previously spoken publicly about having experienced sexual assault or harassment.
Conclude
Naomie Harris (Ian West/PA)
UK Time’s Up board said the proposal for an ISA “will seek to fill these gaps and provide these survivors with a confidential space not only to offer advice and mediation when requested, but also to be accountable for the first time”.
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It added: “It is important to stress that the ISA is in no way seeking to replace the best practices and procedures already in place, but rather to complement them and ensure that all voices are heard.
“As an industry, we must work together to eradicate these toxic practices, support each other, share insights and never stop leading the industry into a future with solid foundations of best practice.”
BAFTA chair Krishnendu Majumdar and Bectu broadcasting union leader Philippa Childs have both backed the proposal.
Culture Minister Nadine Dorries, who attended an industry roundtable in January, also supports a push for action.
https://www.independent.ie/entertainment/movies/keira-knightley-and-naomie-harris-back-calls-for-uk-anti-harassment-authority-41619263.html Keira Knightley and Naomie Harris back calls for a UK anti-harassment agency
