Why Nicola Sturgeon still feels pressure to be twice as good as men
The First Minister speaks to us about what International Women's Day means to her
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is telling MFR says she still feels she has to prove herself against men, and International Women’s Day is a reminder we don't live in a gender equal world.
Speaking to our Political Editor Alan Smith, Ms Sturgeon said: "This year is it particularly important we see International Women’s Day as a time of solidarity with women and girls in conflict, not least in Ukraine, and on the front line in climate change, poverty and inequality.
"It's about rededicating ourselves to winning that battle for gender equality for the next generation.
In the interview she reflected on how she’s been affected by attitudes to women in politics during her journey from a grassroots SNP campaigner to Bute House.
"I wouldn't have thought that at the time, but I know if I look back on my career I know that there were attitudes, mindsets and behaviours that held me back and that would include being treated differently.
"Behaviours in men that are seen as strong, or empowered, in women are seen as off putting.
“You have to be better than the men”
“One of the things that was said about me when I was younger was that I never smiled, and as well as thinking that's not true that's not something you'd often hear said about a man.
And she revealed it’s something that affects her still, after more than seven years as First Minister.
"I still feel this today. As a woman you constantly feel you have to be better than the men around you to order to prove yourself.
You've got to be twice as good as them to sometimes be considered just half as successful.
"I've suffered the abuse, harassment and misogyny that unfortunately still afflicts our lives. "
READ MORE: Labour's Angela Rayner on gender in politics
Advice for other women in politics
"One of the things I often consider myself fortunate for is growing up in politics in a time before social media, because I think the impact of that makes all of that so much worse for women and girls.
"I would say to young women if you are interested in politics don't allow the toxic culture and environment we so often work in to put you off.
"And I would say to women of my generation who are already in politics lets show support and solidarity to the next generation because they need our help.
"The solution to this is for men to stop behaving in a misogynistic manner. To stop abusing and harassing women. And it's for the whole culture of our society to change. We've got to put much more of the spotlight on men.