Chamber and committees

I agree with the member. He mentioned Tea in the Pot; I am aware that my colleague the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice has visited that excellent service.

I thank the people of Pollok for their tenacity, resilience and community spirit. The Scottish Government recognises—as do I, personally—the contribution that is made by community-based organisations in responding to local needs. Community activity brings positive changes to people’s lives, and that is why the Government remains a strong advocate for the third sector. We remain committed to empowering communities to do things for themselves and make their voices heard in the planning and delivery of services.

Domestic abuse is abhorrent, which is why we are providing record levels of funding to vital front-line services to support survivors. We fund Scotland’s domestic abuse and forced marriage helpline to ensure that round-the-clock specialist advice is available. Through our £19 million per year delivering equally safe fund, which I recently announced will be extended for another year, we support a range of organisations across Scotland to ensure that vital support to women and children is available locally. Our victim-centred approach fund provides £18.5 million for specialist advocacy support for survivors between 2022 and 2025.

As I said, domestic abuse is a total blight on our society. We had extensive discussions during the 16 days of activism against violence against women and girls.

I acknowledge that there has been a small increase in the number of incidents that have been reported to the police, but we know that many of those crimes go unreported. I encourage victims to seek help and support. We continue to make changes to the justice system to make it easier to report incidents, and we have legislated to give police, prosecutors and the courts greater powers to tackle domestic abuse crimes.

We are also taking steps to address financial abuse. That is clearly set out in our delivering equally safe plan, which is jointly delivered through partnership with stakeholders, local authorities and the Scottish Government.

I also highlight the £500,000 fund to leave pilot, which provided financial support to women who were leaving an abusive relationship. The assessment is nearly at the end stage, and I will be able to report back soon.

It is a real privilege to speak in tonight’s debate to mark 10 years of same-sex marriage in Scotland. I thank Emma Roddick for bringing the debate to the chamber, and I note the respectful tone that has been adopted by all contributors from across the chamber tonight.

There was a long and careful process to improve equality and to respect the rights and views of those who opposed same-sex marriage or had concerns about it. In particular, we recognised and put in place protections for religious bodies and celebrants who fundamentally disagreed with same-sex marriage because of their religious convictions, while other religious and belief bodies strongly supported same-sex marriage and wished to take part. Following their own careful deliberations, more bodies have chosen to opt in.

The Scottish Government consulted twice—once on the principles and once on a draft bill. The bill was passed on 4 February 2014, which was an emotional day. Once the bill was enacted, National Records of Scotland made a number of operational changes, including information technology changes. I pay tribute to NRS and local authority registrars for the work that they carried out at the time, which was done at pace.

In 2014, the Scottish Government worked on secondary legislation, which included working closely with the UK Government to promote an order under section 104 of the Scotland Act 1998. Among other things, that amended the Equality Act 2010 to protect celebrants who did not wish to take part in same-sex marriage ceremonies. Those protections have stood the test of time.

The first same-sex marriages in Scotland took place in December 2014. As the motion says, same-sex marriages have been a success. Since 2014, more than 10,000 couples have entered into a same-sex marriage. The number is higher than the one mentioned in the motion because that figure includes only the first three quarters of 2024.

Same-sex marriage has become an established part of society, and there are now more countries that take part in and recognise same-sex marriage. However, as the motion also says, there is still much to do to achieve equality here, in Scotland, and world wide. In 2019, we pardoned all men with convictions for same-sex sexual activity that is now legal, but, in some countries, consensual sexual activity between couples of the same sex remains illegal. Scotland needs to show that we are, as the motion says, an exemplar in equality.

Changes can be made to civil law as well as to criminal law in order to further equality. The 2014 act was a major step in civil law to recognise equality for LGBTQI+ people. Emma Roddick asked for an update on the position on ending conversion practices. I reaffirm that conversion practices are abusive and harmful and that no one should be coerced into changing or suppressing their sexual orientation or gender identity. We continue to work with the UK Government to explore a complementary approach. We are in the early stages of that work, following a detailed consultation, the responses to which will be published in due course. The Scottish Government continues to work at pace to ensure that comprehensive and effective legislation is ready to be introduced to Parliament, if that is required.

Jackson Carlaw made his contribution with his usual eloquence, but Gloria Gaynor said it first when she sang the words

“I am what I am.”

I thank Paul O’Kane for sharing his experiences and for highlighting the joy and love that have been brought to so many people through equal marriage.

Rona Mackay, by recounting and describing some joyous ceremonies, gave us all wedding invitation envy. I thank her for paying tribute to all the campaigners for equal marriage, and I add my thanks to them for paving the way for all to live and love.

Maggie Chapman was right to highlight the current situation regarding legislation on converting marriages to civil partnerships. She is aware that making that option available in Scotland would involve a Scottish statutory instrument being laid in this Parliament and an order under section 104 of the Scotland Act 1998 being laid at Westminster. The Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice has written to the Secretary of State for Scotland on that issue, and I urge members to take up Maggie Chapman’s suggestion to give the secretary of state a wee nudge in that direction.

Patrick Harvie reminded us of pre-devolution times, which were such dark times for LGBTQI+ communities. I want to reassure him that this Government believes in human rights for all and will continue to pursue equality for all. I am proud of the work that was carried out 10 years ago to reform civil law to introduce same-sex marriage. I looked back at the stage 1 debate on the bill, on 20 November 2013. Kevin Stewart, who signed today’s motion, said that voting for the bill would give LGBT people

“the right to share the happiness and love and the trials and tribulations of marriage.”—[Official Report, 20 November 2013; c 24658.]

Jamie Greene referred to the counsel that he received from Ruth Davidson. In that debate, Ruth Davidson said:

“I want that right to extend to not just me but the thousands of people across Scotland who are told that the law says no and that they cannot marry the love of their life. They are not allowed and, unless we change the law, they will never be allowed.”—[Official Report, 20 November 2013; c 24644-24645.]

This Parliament did change the law, same-sex marriage was introduced and it has brought happiness to thousands of couples. I welcome this celebration, and I commend the motion.

It is a real privilege to speak in tonight’s debate to mark 10 years of same-sex marriage in Scotland. I thank Emma Roddick for bringing the debate to the chamber, and I note the respectful tone that has been adopted by all contributors from across the chamber tonight.

There was a long and careful process to improve equality and to respect the rights and views of those who opposed same-sex marriage or had concerns about it. In particular, we recognised and put in place protections for religious bodies and celebrants who fundamentally disagreed with same-sex marriage because of their religious convictions, while other religious and belief bodies strongly supported same-sex marriage and wished to take part. Following their own careful deliberations, more bodies have chosen to opt in.

The Scottish Government consulted twice—once on the principles and once on a draft bill. The bill was passed on 4 February 2014, which was an emotional day. Once the bill was enacted, National Records of Scotland made a number of operational changes, including information technology changes. I pay tribute to NRS and local authority registrars for the work that they carried out at the time, which was done at pace.

In 2014, the Scottish Government worked on secondary legislation, which included working closely with the UK Government to promote an order under section 104 of the Scotland Act 1998. Among other things, that amended the Equality Act 2010 to protect celebrants who did not wish to take part in same-sex marriage ceremonies. Those protections have stood the test of time.

The first same-sex marriages in Scotland took place in December 2014. As the motion says, same-sex marriages have been a success. Since 2014, more than 10,000 couples have entered into a same-sex marriage. The number is higher than the one mentioned in the motion because that figure includes only the first three quarters of 2024.

Same-sex marriage has become an established part of society, and there are now more countries that take part in and recognise same-sex marriage. However, as the motion also says, there is still much to do to achieve equality here, in Scotland, and world wide. In 2019, we pardoned all men with convictions for same-sex sexual activity that is now legal, but, in some countries, consensual sexual activity between couples of the same sex remains illegal. Scotland needs to show that we are, as the motion says, an exemplar in equality.

Changes can be made to civil law as well as to criminal law in order to further equality. The 2014 act was a major step in civil law to recognise equality for LGBTQI+ people. Emma Roddick asked for an update on the position on ending conversion practices. I reaffirm that conversion practices are abusive and harmful and that no one should be coerced into changing or suppressing their sexual orientation or gender identity. We continue to work with the UK Government to explore a complementary approach. We are in the early stages of that work, following a detailed consultation, the responses to which will be published in due course. The Scottish Government continues to work at pace to ensure that comprehensive and effective legislation is ready to be introduced to Parliament, if that is required.

Jackson Carlaw made his contribution with his usual eloquence, but Gloria Gaynor said it first when she sang the words

“I am what I am.”

I thank Paul O’Kane for sharing his experiences and for highlighting the joy and love that have been brought to so many people through equal marriage.

Rona Mackay, by recounting and describing some joyous ceremonies, gave us all wedding invitation envy. I thank her for paying tribute to all the campaigners for equal marriage, and I add my thanks to them for paving the way for all to live and love.

Maggie Chapman was right to highlight the current situation regarding legislation on converting marriages to civil partnerships. She is aware that making that option available in Scotland would involve a Scottish statutory instrument being laid in this Parliament and an order under section 104 of the Scotland Act 1998 being laid at Westminster. The Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice has written to the Secretary of State for Scotland on that issue, and I urge members to take up Maggie Chapman’s suggestion to give the secretary of state a wee nudge in that direction.

Patrick Harvie reminded us of pre-devolution times, which were such dark times for LGBTQI+ communities. I want to reassure him that this Government believes in human rights for all and will continue to pursue equality for all. I am proud of the work that was carried out 10 years ago to reform civil law to introduce same-sex marriage. I looked back at the stage 1 debate on the bill, on 20 November 2013. Kevin Stewart, who signed today’s motion, said that voting for the bill would give LGBT people

“the right to share the happiness and love and the trials and tribulations of marriage.”—[Official Report, 20 November 2013; c 24658.]

Jamie Greene referred to the counsel that he received from Ruth Davidson. In that debate, Ruth Davidson said:

“I want that right to extend to not just me but the thousands of people across Scotland who are told that the law says no and that they cannot marry the love of their life. They are not allowed and, unless we change the law, they will never be allowed.”—[Official Report, 20 November 2013; c 24644-24645.]

This Parliament did change the law, same-sex marriage was introduced and it has brought happiness to thousands of couples. I welcome this celebration, and I commend the motion.

It is a real privilege to speak in tonight’s debate to mark 10 years of same-sex marriage in Scotland. I thank Emma Roddick for bringing the debate to the chamber, and I note the respectful tone that has been adopted by all contributors from across the chamber tonight.

There was a long and careful process to improve equality and to respect the rights and views of those who opposed same-sex marriage or had concerns about it. In particular, we recognised and put in place protections for religious bodies and celebrants who fundamentally disagreed with same-sex marriage because of their religious convictions, while other religious and belief bodies strongly supported same-sex marriage and wished to take part. Following their own careful deliberations, more bodies have chosen to opt in.

The Scottish Government consulted twice—once on the principles and once on a draft bill. The bill was passed on 4 February 2014, which was an emotional day. Once the bill was enacted, National Records of Scotland made a number of operational changes, including information technology changes. I pay tribute to NRS and local authority registrars for the work that they carried out at the time, which was done at pace.

In 2014, the Scottish Government worked on secondary legislation, which included working closely with the UK Government to promote an order under section 104 of the Scotland Act 1998. Among other things, that amended the Equality Act 2010 to protect celebrants who did not wish to take part in same-sex marriage ceremonies. Those protections have stood the test of time.

The first same-sex marriages in Scotland took place in December 2014. As the motion says, same-sex marriages have been a success. Since 2014, more than 10,000 couples have entered into a same-sex marriage. The number is higher than the one mentioned in the motion because that figure includes only the first three quarters of 2024.

Same-sex marriage has become an established part of society, and there are now more countries that take part in and recognise same-sex marriage. However, as the motion also says, there is still much to do to achieve equality here, in Scotland, and world wide. In 2019, we pardoned all men with convictions for same-sex sexual activity that is now legal, but, in some countries, consensual sexual activity between couples of the same sex remains illegal. Scotland needs to show that we are, as the motion says, an exemplar in equality.

Changes can be made to civil law as well as to criminal law in order to further equality. The 2014 act was a major step in civil law to recognise equality for LGBTQI+ people. Emma Roddick asked for an update on the position on ending conversion practices. I reaffirm that conversion practices are abusive and harmful and that no one should be coerced into changing or suppressing their sexual orientation or gender identity. We continue to work with the UK Government to explore a complementary approach. We are in the early stages of that work, following a detailed consultation, the responses to which will be published in due course. The Scottish Government continues to work at pace to ensure that comprehensive and effective legislation is ready to be introduced to Parliament, if that is required.

Jackson Carlaw made his contribution with his usual eloquence, but Gloria Gaynor said it first when she sang the words

“I am what I am.”

I thank Paul O’Kane for sharing his experiences and for highlighting the joy and love that have been brought to so many people through equal marriage.

Rona Mackay, by recounting and describing some joyous ceremonies, gave us all wedding invitation envy. I thank her for paying tribute to all the campaigners for equal marriage, and I add my thanks to them for paving the way for all to live and love.

Maggie Chapman was right to highlight the current situation regarding legislation on converting marriages to civil partnerships. She is aware that making that option available in Scotland would involve a Scottish statutory instrument being laid in this Parliament and an order under section 104 of the Scotland Act 1998 being laid at Westminster. The Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice has written to the Secretary of State for Scotland on that issue, and I urge members to take up Maggie Chapman’s suggestion to give the secretary of state a wee nudge in that direction.

Patrick Harvie reminded us of pre-devolution times, which were such dark times for LGBTQI+ communities. I want to reassure him that this Government believes in human rights for all and will continue to pursue equality for all. I am proud of the work that was carried out 10 years ago to reform civil law to introduce same-sex marriage. I looked back at the stage 1 debate on the bill, on 20 November 2013. Kevin Stewart, who signed today’s motion, said that voting for the bill would give LGBT people

“the right to share the happiness and love and the trials and tribulations of marriage.”—[Official Report, 20 November 2013; c 24658.]

Jamie Greene referred to the counsel that he received from Ruth Davidson. In that debate, Ruth Davidson said:

“I want that right to extend to not just me but the thousands of people across Scotland who are told that the law says no and that they cannot marry the love of their life. They are not allowed and, unless we change the law, they will never be allowed.”—[Official Report, 20 November 2013; c 24644-24645.]

This Parliament did change the law, same-sex marriage was introduced and it has brought happiness to thousands of couples. I welcome this celebration, and I commend the motion.

I refer members to my entry in the register of members’ interests: I am a member of Amnesty International.

I thank members for their contributions to the debate, which are a reflection of a Parliament that takes advancement of human rights very seriously—and rightly so.

The challenges that the world faces, some of which have been outlined today, are stark. They are a reminder of why we must continue to support the vital work of human rights defenders globally, which Alex Cole-Hamilton raised in his remarks. Human rights defenders come in many forms, including activists, journalists and lawyers, and many risk their lives daily to defend and protect human rights. That is why I am proud that the Government continues to provide support for the Scottish human rights defender fellowship, which is delivered by the University of Dundee in collaboration with Amnesty International, Peace Brigades International and Front Line Defenders. Since 2018, we have welcomed 19 individuals from 16 countries and have provided them with a place of safety in which to carry out their vital work. It was a privilege to meet some of the defenders last month during their visit to Scotland to hear at first hand about their work.

I will turn to my responses to the contributions that have been made in the chamber. As expected, the theme of human rights has covered an extensive range of issues, so please forgive me if I am not able, in a short time, to touch on all those areas.

With regard to the Conservatives’ amendment, I do not need to say it, but I will not miss this opportunity to reiterate the absence of a reference to the work of the Council of Europe and to its 75th anniversary, which many colleagues have already put on the record. It is difficult for me to take lessons from a Conservative Opposition party that cannot actually decide whether or not it is for human rights. This Government is certainly for advancing human rights.

With regard to the specific comments about female genital mutilation—which is, of course, illegal in Scotland—and implementation of the 2020 act, the Scottish Government has, through its equally safe funding, invested in a range of projects that have a specific FGM focus. An example is ?Community InfoSource’s challenging violence against women project, which seeks to combat FGM through awareness raising, particularly among males in affected communities.

On Paul O’Kane’s contribution, I understand his asking for more action: that is a priority. The rights incorporation agenda is continuing at pace, and we are committed to that. I share his optimism regarding the collaborative work that can now take place with the incoming UK Government—that is hoped for, and the early signs are very good—to ensure that the most effective change can take place through joint co-ordination.

Maggie Chapman was right to highlight the fact that the Scottish Government does, indeed, have a bit of work to do to rebuild trust. The cabinet secretary and I have put it on the record that we understand, and feel keenly, the disappointment that is felt by human rights campaigners. However, we must ensure that we get the bill right, especially for the rights holders, and we need to take the time to work everything through in order to present the bill in the next session of Parliament. Nevertheless, we are absolutely listening.

Keith Brown was eloquent in outlining that we cannot allow the forces of division to roll back our rights and that we must stand firm in our commitment. He was right to highlight the words that politicians, among other folk, might choose to use. Scotland is a welcoming country and we support human rights defenders—indeed, each one of us is a human rights defender—so we must guard against the negative rhetoric that some people can buy into.

Rhoda Grant mentioned the right to food, which is an important topic to highlight. I reassure her that we intend to introduce a human rights bill in the next session of Parliament, and that it will include proposals to incorporate the right to food. With regard to her proposed member’s bill, I know that communications are on-going: the Scottish Government has shared materials and we are open to engagement, as the First Minister confirmed recently at First Minister’s question time.

Karen Adam was quite right to highlight the international collaboration that is needed to uphold human rights, especially at times of great challenge. She was also right to highlight that only with independence would we be able to further protect our rights with more powers.

Bill Kidd asked us all—I take the challenge—to seize the opportunities that are given to us and to lead with conviction and compassion to raise the importance of embedding human rights in everything that we do. He highlighted the importance of putting that in education for the next generation.

I will move on to the contribution from Jeremy Balfour. He will know that I recognise that there is more work to be done. I have never denied that, nor has the Government. We are willing to roll up our sleeves and get on with the hard work, and that means making difficult decisions to pace ourselves so that we get things right and plans are fully costed. I have heard the concerns of disabled people very clearly. In the 2025-26 budget, we have invested an additional £2 million to support the disability equality plan, to deliver essential support and to grow the independent living fund.

Although the Opposition has raised important points regarding funding, no specific requests have been made during the budget negotiations. Perhaps the debate can be taken as a reminder to do so and to make proposals that can be considered.

There is absolutely no room for complacency. In closing, I will echo the words of Michael O’Flaherty, the Council of Europe’s Commissioner for Human Rights, who said:

“there is no room for complacency: renewal must be an ongoing process. It must be informed by the need to deliver respect for the human rights of everyone in our societies in all their extraordinary diversity.”

That renewal is the responsibility of each and every one of us in this Parliament. We owe that to the people of Scotland day in, day out, as we seek to represent them. The Government will drive forward that endeavour with vigour and urgency.

The cabinet secretary outlined in her opening remarks some of the actions that we are taking to respect, protect and fulfil human rights. As part of that, she reaffirmed our commitment to introducing a human rights bill. I know that civil society is seeking a commitment from all parties in the chamber to pass such a bill. As we move forward, we continue to welcome the necessary scrutiny, constructive challenge and collaboration on the proposed bill and on how we might collectively advance the wider human rights agenda across everything that we do as a Government and as a Parliament. That accountability forms the bedrock of human rights realisation and reflects the imperatives of the international human rights treaty system.

Human rights day is a reminder that, whatever our differences, we must unite behind the transformative power of human rights to create a pathway for a better future for Scotland, and beyond.

I refer members to my entry in the register of members’ interests: I am a member of Amnesty International.

I thank members for their contributions to the debate, which are a reflection of a Parliament that takes advancement of human rights very seriously—and rightly so.

The challenges that the world faces, some of which have been outlined today, are stark. They are a reminder of why we must continue to support the vital work of human rights defenders globally, which Alex Cole-Hamilton raised in his remarks. Human rights defenders come in many forms, including activists, journalists and lawyers, and many risk their lives daily to defend and protect human rights. That is why I am proud that the Government continues to provide support for the Scottish human rights defender fellowship, which is delivered by the University of Dundee in collaboration with Amnesty International, Peace Brigades International and Front Line Defenders. Since 2018, we have welcomed 19 individuals from 16 countries and have provided them with a place of safety in which to carry out their vital work. It was a privilege to meet some of the defenders last month during their visit to Scotland to hear at first hand about their work.

I will turn to my responses to the contributions that have been made in the chamber. As expected, the theme of human rights has covered an extensive range of issues, so please forgive me if I am not able, in a short time, to touch on all those areas.

With regard to the Conservatives’ amendment, I do not need to say it, but I will not miss this opportunity to reiterate the absence of a reference to the work of the Council of Europe and to its 75th anniversary, which many colleagues have already put on the record. It is difficult for me to take lessons from a Conservative Opposition party that cannot actually decide whether or not it is for human rights. This Government is certainly for advancing human rights.

With regard to the specific comments about female genital mutilation—which is, of course, illegal in Scotland—and implementation of the 2020 act, the Scottish Government has, through its equally safe funding, invested in a range of projects that have a specific FGM focus. An example is ?Community InfoSource’s challenging violence against women project, which seeks to combat FGM through awareness raising, particularly among males in affected communities.

On Paul O’Kane’s contribution, I understand his asking for more action: that is a priority. The rights incorporation agenda is continuing at pace, and we are committed to that. I share his optimism regarding the collaborative work that can now take place with the incoming UK Government—that is hoped for, and the early signs are very good—to ensure that the most effective change can take place through joint co-ordination.

Maggie Chapman was right to highlight the fact that the Scottish Government does, indeed, have a bit of work to do to rebuild trust. The cabinet secretary and I have put it on the record that we understand, and feel keenly, the disappointment that is felt by human rights campaigners. However, we must ensure that we get the bill right, especially for the rights holders, and we need to take the time to work everything through in order to present the bill in the next session of Parliament. Nevertheless, we are absolutely listening.

Keith Brown was eloquent in outlining that we cannot allow the forces of division to roll back our rights and that we must stand firm in our commitment. He was right to highlight the words that politicians, among other folk, might choose to use. Scotland is a welcoming country and we support human rights defenders—indeed, each one of us is a human rights defender—so we must guard against the negative rhetoric that some people can buy into.

Rhoda Grant mentioned the right to food, which is an important topic to highlight. I reassure her that we intend to introduce a human rights bill in the next session of Parliament, and that it will include proposals to incorporate the right to food. With regard to her proposed member’s bill, I know that communications are on-going: the Scottish Government has shared materials and we are open to engagement, as the First Minister confirmed recently at First Minister’s question time.

Karen Adam was quite right to highlight the international collaboration that is needed to uphold human rights, especially at times of great challenge. She was also right to highlight that only with independence would we be able to further protect our rights with more powers.

Bill Kidd asked us all—I take the challenge—to seize the opportunities that are given to us and to lead with conviction and compassion to raise the importance of embedding human rights in everything that we do. He highlighted the importance of putting that in education for the next generation.

I will move on to the contribution from Jeremy Balfour. He will know that I recognise that there is more work to be done. I have never denied that, nor has the Government. We are willing to roll up our sleeves and get on with the hard work, and that means making difficult decisions to pace ourselves so that we get things right and plans are fully costed. I have heard the concerns of disabled people very clearly. In the 2025-26 budget, we have invested an additional £2 million to support the disability equality plan, to deliver essential support and to grow the independent living fund.

Although the Opposition has raised important points regarding funding, no specific requests have been made during the budget negotiations. Perhaps the debate can be taken as a reminder to do so and to make proposals that can be considered.

There is absolutely no room for complacency. In closing, I will echo the words of Michael O’Flaherty, the Council of Europe’s Commissioner for Human Rights, who said:

“there is no room for complacency: renewal must be an ongoing process. It must be informed by the need to deliver respect for the human rights of everyone in our societies in all their extraordinary diversity.”

That renewal is the responsibility of each and every one of us in this Parliament. We owe that to the people of Scotland day in, day out, as we seek to represent them. The Government will drive forward that endeavour with vigour and urgency.

The cabinet secretary outlined in her opening remarks some of the actions that we are taking to respect, protect and fulfil human rights. As part of that, she reaffirmed our commitment to introducing a human rights bill. I know that civil society is seeking a commitment from all parties in the chamber to pass such a bill. As we move forward, we continue to welcome the necessary scrutiny, constructive challenge and collaboration on the proposed bill and on how we might collectively advance the wider human rights agenda across everything that we do as a Government and as a Parliament. That accountability forms the bedrock of human rights realisation and reflects the imperatives of the international human rights treaty system.

Human rights day is a reminder that, whatever our differences, we must unite behind the transformative power of human rights to create a pathway for a better future for Scotland, and beyond.

Will the member take an intervention?

I am proud to open our debate to mark the annual 16 days of activism against gender-based violence campaign, which calls for everyone to imagine a Scotland that is free from violence against women and girls.

Last year, Zero Tolerance worked with a group of women who were asked to imagine just that. The film that they created was full of words such as “respected” and “free”. They thought that Scotland would be busy because so many more women and girls would be in public spaces, laughing, talking and having fun.

Sadly, as 2024 draws to a close, violence, abuse and misogyny remain an everyday and detrimental reality for women and girls in Scotland and internationally.

I am proud of our contribution to tackling this global issue and I am pleased to announce the launch of the new phase of our Police Scotland partnership programme with the police services of Malawi and Zambia. Through our international development fund, the new programme will continue to tackle violence against women and children.

Although we have our differences across the chamber, I am sure that we can be unanimous in recognising the importance of the global 16 days of activism against gender-based violence.

Violence against women and girls has no place in Scotland. As Taylor Swift sang in her song “Starlight”,

“Don’t you dream impossible things?”

A Scotland without violence against women is not an impossible thing, but it is a bold and ambitious goal. As parliamentarians, we can demonstrate through our collective voice that we are united in our ambition to end that blight on our society.

A significant message from a recent debate in the Scottish Youth Parliament was the importance of respectful dialogue and the recognition that young people’s voices are an integral part of the movement to tackle the issue. I welcome members of the Scottish Youth Parliament who are present in the chamber and I thank them for eloquently voicing the concerns of young people on this topic during their debate. As I promised them, we will use their debate to inform the debate on today’s motion by emphasising the importance of meaningful engagement with children and young people.

The Scottish Government has a bold ambition to make Scotland the best place in the world in which to grow up. An act that was fully commenced in July 2024 incorporates into Scots law, within the limits of our devolved competence, the rights and obligations set out in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The right of children to have their views heard and taken seriously is a guiding general principle of the UNCRC, and we are committed to ensuring that children and young people are at the heart of decisions that affect them. That is why a member of the Scottish Youth Parliament, Olivia Brown, has a representative voice on the equally safe joint strategic board, which oversees and supports the work to tackle violence against women and girls through our equally safe delivery plan.

The issues raised in the Scottish Youth Parliament debate, including technology-facilitated abuse, are reflected in many of the deliverables in the plan. Online abuse is a key issue affecting young people, and we recognise the harm and distress that it causes those who are targeted. I saw that for myself on a recent visit to Glasgow and Clyde Rape Crisis, where young people had been supported to develop an awareness-raising exhibition that focused on mainstream and social media handling of violence against women.

Keeping children and young people in Scotland safe from online harm is a priority for the Scottish Government. Although the regulation of the internet is a reserved matter, we will continue to engage with the United Kingdom Government and Ofcom on the implementation of the Online Safety Act 2023 and ensure that there are improved protections to keep children safe online.

I want us to lead from the front. That is why our equally safe delivery plan has a commitment that I convene a media summit to bring together key players from across all forms of media, including social media, to formulate a progressive and united approach to challenging violence and abuse.

Furthermore, in collaboration with Education Scotland, we have ensured that digital literacy, including internet safety and cyber resilience, is an integral part of the school curriculum. The Parent Club website also provides information and advice to parents on how to keep children safe online.

On 18 November, the Minister for Victims and Community Safety attended the launch of a sextortion campaign. It was launched to respond to the growing incidence of sextortion over the past 12 months in Scotland. The campaign was a collaboration between fearless, which is a Crimestoppers service, Police Scotland and the Scottish Government. Importantly, it has been co-designed with teenagers, the group most affected by the issue. The collaborative model is one that I am keen to see replicated in other areas of our work.

In recognition of the prevalence of harmful sexual behaviour for young people, we continue to implement the equally safe at school project. Developed by Zero Tolerance and Rape Crisis Scotland, the project works to prevent gender-based violence and to increase confidence and skills in order to respond accordingly.