Mary-Ann Stephenson named as next chair of equality watchdog

A human rights expert whose appointment was opposed by trans rights campaigners and some MPs has been named as the new chair of the equality watchdog.

Mary-Ann Stephenson will take up her role at the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) in December when Kishwer Falkner’s extended term comes to an end.

Stephenson, who is currently director of Women’s Budget Group, a feminist think tank, and has over 30 years of experience working on equality and human rights issues, was confirmed as the new chair by equalities minister Bridget Phillipson.

Phillipson said: “Equality and opportunity are absolutely vital in improving people’s life chances and the EHRC plays an essential role in upholding and protecting our rights.

“I have the utmost confidence that the depth and breadth of Dr Stephenson’s experience will allow her to run the EHRC with integrity and professionalism. I am particularly encouraged by the balance of her experience across equalities and human rights.”

Stephenson had been announced as the UK Government’s preferred candidate in June and appeared before the Women and Equalities Committee and the Joint Committee on Human Rights in the House of Commons earlier this month.

Following her appearance, the two cross-party groups wrote to Phillipson opposing Stephenson’s appointment, saying she lacked relevant experience. And trans rights campaigners had accused her of “aligning herself with gender-critical ideologies”.

However, women’s groups backed Stephenson’s appointment, describing her as an “inspired choice” for the role.

Commenting on her appointment, she said: “I have spent over 30 years building my career across the equality and human rights sector and I am delighted to have the opportunity to bring my insight and experience to lead the EHRC with compassion, honesty and dedication.

 “I look forward to working with the government and all stakeholders alongside my new colleagues at the EHRC to uphold equality and human rights and ensure that everyone is treated with respect and dignity.”

Following the Supreme Court’s ruling earlier this year that for the purpose of the Equality Act, the term ‘woman’ refers to a biological woman and ‘sex’ to biological sex, the EHRC issued interim guidance on single-sex spaces. Falkner, the outgoing chair, referred to the judgment as a “victory for common sense”.  

John Kirkpatrick, chief executive of the EHRC, said: “We welcome confirmation of the appointment of Dr Stephenson as our next chair. 

“She brings a track record of working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, and her experience in addressing inequalities and human rights issues will be invaluable as we deliver our new strategic plan and continue our work to make Britain a fairer country.”