Watchdog crackdown on gender stereotypes used in advertising

● Warning over campaigns showing portrayals that are harmful

The new standards will not ban all stereotypes, such as women cleaning or a men doing DIY jobs.

But ads that depict scenarios such as a woman having sole responsibility for cleaning up her family’s mess or a man trying and failing to do simple parental or household tasks are likely to be banned, as would a campaign suggesting a specific activity is inappropriate for boys because it is stereotypically associated with girls and vice versa.

The new standards will come into force next year.

ASA chief executive Guy Parker said: “Portrayals which reinforce outdated and stereotypical views on gender roles in society can play their part in driving unfair outcomes for people.

“While advertising is only one of many factors that contribute to unequal gender outcomes, tougher advertising standards can play an important role in tackling inequalities and improving outcomes for individuals, the economy and society as a whole.”

Ella Smillie, lead author of the ASA’S report, said: “Our review shows that specific forms of gender stereotypes in ads can contribute to harm for adults and children.

“Such portrayals can limit how people see themselves, how others see them, and limit the life decisions they take.

“Tougher standards in the areas we’ve identified will address harms and ensure that modern society is better represented.”

The ASA’S move follows last month’s announcement of a Unilever-led alliance of major brands and organisations aiming to end gender stereotyping in advertising.

The Unstereotype Initiative, sponsored by UN Women, also includes Facebook, Google, Alibaba and Mars.

0 Men failing to carry out household tasks was one of the highlighted stereotypes