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Strangulation in pornography to be made illegal – UK ban explained

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  • Post last modified:July 20, 2025

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Strangulation in pornography to be made illegal marks a pivotal shift in UK law, targeting the normalization of violent sexual content that has seeped into mainstream adult media. Announced by the Ministry of Justice in June 2025, the move criminalises any depiction of strangulation during sex—a bold step aimed at confronting misogyny and safeguarding women from emerging harm. Informed by expert analysis, public safety data, and cultural trends, this article delves deeper to give you the full picture—and why it matters.

What the Law Covers and Why It Matters

The UK government has proposed an amendment to the Crime and Policing Bill, making it illegal to produce, distribute, or possess pornography that depicts strangulation during sexual acts. This builds on existing laws like the Obscene Publications Act 1959 and the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008, extending them to online content.

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This move reflects findings from Baroness Gabby Bertin’s Independent Porn Review, which revealed that violent porn—especially strangulation—is increasingly seen as “normal” in sexual content. The review warned that this is not just fantasy; it carries real-world consequences, influencing young audiences to emulate such acts in their relationships.

Evidence and Expert Opinions

Campaigners and researchers emphasise that “there is no safe way to strangle a person.” Non-fatal strangulation is linked to serious health risks—brain damage, memory loss, strokes, and even death.

Psychologists highlight that many young men learned choking from porn, not understanding the physical risks involved. Data backs this up: research shows 35% of 16–34 year-olds have experienced strangulation during consensual sex, with transgender and non-binary individuals disproportionately affected.

Cultural Impact and Online Regulation

The ban is part of the broader Plan for Change, pledging to halve violence against women and girls. It reflects a shift toward parity between offline and online porn regulation. The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) is advocating to expand its role to classify and audit internet pornography.

These changes come amid growing evidence that online platforms, including algorithmic recommendations, are amplifying extreme porn content—often targeting youths.

Societal Backlash and Support

Supporters—including the End Violence Against Women Coalition—say this ban finally aligns legal protections with societal needs: controlling violent content that is currently trivialised in mainstream porn. The Heartlander Andrea Simon of EVAW emphasises that consent is meaningless when significant harm is involved.

Critics worry that banning certain acts in porn might be arbitrary or inconsistent, citing earlier disputes over what’s considered obscene or degrading. However, this bill comes with the backing of robust medical data and expert opinion on harm and normalization.

What Comes Next: Enforcement & Public Awareness

Once passed, the amendment will require platforms to remove strangle-themed content. The Crime and Policing Bill is currently going through Parliament, with anticipated implementation by late 2025. GOV.UK

Beyond legal change, effective enforcement demands stronger age verification—currently under the Online Safety Act—and improved monitoring by bodies like the BBFC. Public education campaigns about the health risks and lack of “safe” strangulation are also vital to shifting attitudes.

Conclusion

The move to make strangulation in pornography illegal is more than a legal adjustment—it’s a cultural reckoning. By acknowledging the real-world harms of violent porn and taking a stand, the UK is sending a message: misogyny and violence have no place on-screen—or off. With strong enforcement, age controls, and education, this ban could reshape norms and protect vulnerable individuals.

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[USnewsSphere.com]

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