The founders of PinkNews, a prominent LGBTQI+ news website, are facing multiple allegations from current and former staff members regarding serious misconduct within the organization. Reports from the BBC highlight instances of sexual harassment, bullying, and a culture of misogyny linked directly to Anthony James, a director at PinkNews, and his husband Benjamin Cohen, who is the site’s founder. Allegations include a reported incident where James was observed kissing and inappropriately touching a junior employee who appeared to be intoxicated and possibly unable to consent. Additionally, over 30 staff members have come forward citing an environment characterized by excessive drinking, which they allege has led to inappropriate interactions between the couple and younger male employees.
In response to these allegations, representatives for Cohen and Dr. James have claimed that the accusations are untrue and have not provided any formal statements addressing the specific claims. The BBC’s investigation has brought to light a variety of testimonies from 33 individuals who worked at PinkNews from 2017 to 2024, compiling evidence that includes official complaints, private communications among staff expressing their concerns, and medical records highlighting mental health issues related to their work environment. This documented evidence suggests a troubling pattern that has contributed to distress among employees, creating a hostile workplace atmosphere.
Following the publication of these allegations, concerns have been echoed at the political level, with a spokesperson for the Prime Minister expressing unease about the reports. While he refrained from addressing the specifics of the situation, he emphasized the importance of a workplace being free from inappropriate behavior. This growing awareness from high-profile figures underscores the severity of the allegations and the potential implications for the leadership at PinkNews. Furthermore, the question of whether Sir Keir Starmer, the current UK Prime Minister, will again attend the PinkNews Awards—after being in attendance in 2022—remains uncertain, as he also declined to comment on the ongoing situation.
The issue has reached a broader audience, affecting the reputation of PinkNews, which was established in 2005 and has notably served as a platform for various political leaders. Prominent politicians, including former Prime Ministers Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Corbyn, have engaged with the outlet, enhancing its stature within the media landscape. However, these allegations threaten to undermine the credibility of both the founders and the organization itself, as they challenge the integrity of a platform that is meant to support and advocate for the LGBTQI+ community.
The gravity of the allegations is further illuminated by the experiences shared by employees, one of whom remarked on the detrimental impact of the leadership’s behavior, particularly during company events. The sentiment highlights the perception that the executives’ conduct has cast a shadow over the professional environment, leading to significant concerns about safety and respect in the workplace. Such statements underscore a critical need for organizational accountability and reflect a larger conversation about workplace culture, particularly within media organizations that aim to promote inclusivity and equality.
In light of these revelations, the future of PinkNews is in a precarious position. As investigations continue and more individuals come forward with their experiences, the calls for transparency and structural reform within the organization grow louder. Establishing an environment where employees feel safe and respected is paramount, particularly for a platform that stands for the rights and dignity of the LGBTQI+ community. The outcome of this situation may set a precedent for how similar organizations address allegations of misconduct and uphold ethical standards in the workplace, highlighting the need for comprehensive measures to prevent such issues from arising in the first place.
