The Women and Equalities Committee (WEC) has called on the UK Government to outlaw non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) in cases of sexual misconduct, bullying, and discrimination in the music industry, warning that entrenched misogyny remains a serious issue.
In a report released on Wednesday, the committee found that women working in music continue to face widespread harassment, gender-based discrimination, and structural disadvantages. It warned that change would require both cultural and legislative reform to protect those at risk, particularly freelancers and self-employed professionals.
The committee expressed concern over the use of NDAs to silence victims of abuse, especially under coercive conditions. It recommended that the Government introduce legislation to prohibit NDAs and other confidentiality clauses in cases involving sexual abuse, sexual harassment, bullying, or discrimination linked to protected characteristics.
According to the report, fear of retaliation and career setbacks keeps reporting rates low, while unequal pay and age-based discrimination continue to affect women across the industry. The committee said that removing the legal use of NDAs in such instances would show “decisive leadership” and send a strong message that silencing victims will no longer be accepted.
WEC Chair and Labour MP Sarah Owen said: “One year on from the Women and Equalities Committee’s report on misogyny in music, significant issues within the industry remain unaddressed and appear to be on repeat.
“WEC’s 2024 report warned women pursuing careers in music face endemic misogyny and discrimination in a sector dominated by self-employment. It laid bare a boys’ club where sexual harassment and abuse is common, and the non-reporting of such incidents is high.
“The misuse of NDAs is a major concern. NDAs are frequently used to silence victims of harassment and abuse, often under coercive circumstances. The report presents evidence of the psychological toll these agreements take and the power imbalances that make them particularly harmful in the music industry.
“Women working in music feel rightly frustrated at the lack of support from the Government in tackling the challenges they face. Female artists should not encounter limitations in opportunity or have to work far harder to get the recognition their ability and talent merits. We urge ministers to accept the recommendations in our new report and help set the music industry on a path of lasting change free from discrimination and harassment.”
Another key concern raised was the lack of protections for freelance and temporary workers, such as “depping” musicians. The committee said the Equality Act does not explicitly extend to these workers and recommended the Government close this gap.
The report also drew attention to the burdens placed on parents and carers, particularly self-employed women who face insufficient maternity provisions and high childcare costs. WEC recommended amending the Employment Rights Bill to bring maternity allowance in line with statutory maternity pay to provide more equitable support.
In addition, the committee urged ministers to support the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority by providing legal guarantees to strengthen the body’s efforts in tackling misconduct across the sector. The Government has been approached for a response to the recommendations.
