By Prosper Mene
In a notable decision, the UK Government has announced plans to criminalize the depiction of strangulation in pornography, a move aimed at protecting women and girls from gender-based violence. The new legislation, to be introduced through amendments to the Crime and Policing Bill, seeks to address the growing concern over the normalization of violent sexual acts in online content.
The decision follows recommendations from the Independent Porn Review, led by Baroness Gabby Bertin, published in February 2025. The review found that portrayals of non-fatal strangulation, often referred to as “choking” in pornography, have become widespread on mainstream platforms, falsely establishing such acts as a “sexual norm.” It highlighted the dangerous misconception that strangulation is safe, despite evidence of serious physical and psychological harm, including impaired cognitive function, memory loss, and increased risk of stroke or death.
Victims Minister Alex Davies-Jones emphasized the urgency of the ban, stating, “Depicting strangulation during sex is not only dangerous but also degrading, with real-life consequences for women. Cracking down on the appalling rise of strangulation pornography will protect women and send a clear signal that misogyny will not be tolerated.”
The move has been widely supported by campaigners and organizations like the End Violence Against Women Coalition (EVAW). Director Andrea Simon welcomed the decision, noting, “There is no such thing as safe strangulation. Its widespread portrayal in porn is fueling dangerous behaviors, particularly among young people.” She stressed that the legislation is a vital step toward regulating an industry that profits from violence against women.
The ban builds on existing laws, including the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, which criminalized non-fatal strangulation in real-life scenarios, and the Obscene Publications Act 1959, which addresses extreme pornography. However, challenges remain, as much online pornography is hosted on overseas websites, raising questions about enforcement. Baroness Bertin’s review suggested amending the 1959 Act to better capture such content and ensure it cannot be published or distributed.
Critics, including some legal experts, caution that implementing the ban may be complex. Marcus Johnstone, a criminal defense solicitor, warned that banning such content could drive it underground, complicating regulation efforts. Others, like adult content creator Madelaine Thomas, have expressed concerns about policing consensual sexual interests, though campaigners argue the risks of normalizing strangulation outweigh such concerns.
The new law is part of the government’s plan to reduce violence against women and girls. It also fits with new online safety rules that aim to protect young people from harmful content. The government will provide more details on how the law will work as it moves forward. Advocates hope this law will help create a safer online environment.
