New Polling Reveals Young Britons’ Disapproval of UK Government’s Deprioritization of Women and Girls in International Development Agenda
London, United Kingdom – In the wake of the UK Government’s Comprehensive Spending Review, a poll commissioned by Restless Development and conducted by More in Common has revealed a strong generational and gender backlash against the deprioritization of women and girls in Britain’s international development agenda.
The poll, which surveyed a representative sample of 1,105 young Britons aged 18-25, found that 62% of young women believe that the Prime Minister is not doing enough to stand up for gender equality on the world stage. Additionally, 63% of all young people stated that supporting women and girls should be a top priority for the UK’s aid budget. This sentiment is in stark contrast to the government’s decision to cut international aid, with only 23% of respondents showing support for the cuts.
Among the top spending priorities for young women were maternal health, reproductive rights, and ending gender-based violence. These findings highlight the deep concern and disapproval among young Britons towards the government’s deprioritization of women and girls in international development.
“The spending review is a direct challenge to the values of young people. The chancellor has not only sidelined international development but has also ignored those most affected by cuts to aid, women, and girls,” said Alex Kent, Co-CEO of Restless Development.
As the Chancellor failed to mention international development or gender equality in her Comprehensive Spending Review speech, it is evident that the government’s priorities are not aligned with those of young voters. The poll reflects a generation that values global issues as much as domestic ones and rejects aid cuts. It also shows a generation that calls for a UK foreign policy grounded in gender equality, peace, and climate action.
“The only time overseas aid budgets were mentioned in the Chancellor’s speech was to reference the cuts that continue to happen to aid to support other priorities. This polling shows that young people do not buy into these other priorities,” said Emily McChrystal, Project Officer for Walking the Talk UK.
In the face of worsening global crises and persistent gender inequality, this polling sends a clear message: young people are paying attention, and they expect more from their leaders. The government must take note of the concerns and priorities of the younger generation and work towards a more inclusive and equitable international development agenda.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.