Now UN expert berates Green MSP Q Manivannan and insists ’rape is not a spectrum’
A United Nations special rapporteur has publicly criticised Scottish Green MSP Q Manivannan after they suggested rape and sexual offences exist on a "spectrum" of severity, with the expert firmly rejecting that characterisation. The intervention adds international weight to a domestic row that has already drawn criticism from women's rights campaigners and political opponents, who argue the comments risk trivialising or minimising sexual violence.
The UN figure stressed that rape should not be graded or ranked in severity, arguing such framing undermines victims and misrepresents the nature of the crime. Manivannan, who sits as a Green MSP, has faced mounting pressure over the remarks, with the row deepening as further high-profile figures weigh in against the original comments.
In short
- UN expert rebukes Green MSP Q Manivannan over rape "spectrum" comments.
- Expert insists rape severity should not be graded or ranked.
- Row intensifies as international criticism adds to domestic backlash.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Sexual offences justifiably vary in severity, and a justice system must recognise this to respond proportionately and fairly. Rape with violence and weapons differs meaningfully from rape without such aggravating factors, as do other circumstantial elements affecting victims' experiences. Acknowledging this spectrum does not trivialise sexual violence; rather, it allows the law to distinguish appropriately between different harms and ensures sentences reflect actual gravity, which is a cornerstone of justice.
The case against
Rape is a grave and categorical violation that should not be hierarchised as points on a spectrum, as this risks minimising the inherent seriousness of the crime itself. Every instance of rape is a fundamental violation of human dignity, and framing it as variable in severity can lead to some cases being treated as less serious, potentially undermining victim support and trivialising sexual violence. The crime's moral and legal weight should not be graded away by circumstantial considerations.
Explained simply
Q Manivannan is a member of the Scottish Parliament for the Scottish Green Party. The Scottish Parliament makes laws and scrutinises the government in Scotland, including on criminal justice and public services.
Rape and other sexual offences are criminal offences, but the law distinguishes between different acts and circumstances. A United Nations special rapporteur is an independent expert appointed to examine and report on a particular human rights issue.