Achieving Equal Protection for Children in Scotland: A Narrative Account

Abstract

In 2019, the Scottish Parliament passed a Bill that repealed the ‘reasonable chastisement’ defence in Scotland. This article provides a narrative account of this momentous reform. It describes the history of Scotland’s law and gives an overview of a civil society campaign, coordinated by children’s organisations, to secure legal reform. It provides reflections on the campaign, setting out key learning points, including the importance of language and framing; the use of evidence; and the strength of broad coalitions. This account is offered to help inform similar campaigns to provide all children with protection from physical harm.