Naming male violence against women could save lives and ensure justice

In Canada, there has been a significant increase in the recognition and understanding of femicide as a critical issue within the context of gender-based violence. Femicide is defined as the killing of women and girls because of their gender, often occurring in intimate partner relationships. Recent data has shown alarming trends with increasing rates of intimate partner violence, particularly among adults aged 25 to 64 years and seniors aged 65 and older. Advocates argue that explicitly recognizing femicide as a distinct crime in the Criminal Code is essential for addressing the growing epidemic of violence against women. In 2022, the federal government indicated interest in addressing gaps in the Criminal Code related to gender-based violence, which included an exploration of how femicide could be classified legally. Following several high-profile cases where women were killed by men, law enforcement agencies have started to use the term 'femicide' in their public communications, signaling a shift toward recognizing the gender-based motivations behind these murders. For instance, in a recent case, the death of a woman in Ottawa was described as femicide, marking a significant step for policing in acknowledging the nature of such acts of violence. The calls to action have been growing, with various advocates emphasizing the need for enhanced legal frameworks to cover crimes motivated by gender hatred. Proposals to classify femicide under homicide laws as murder in the first degree suggest a more serious legal approach to punish perpetrators and prevent future acts of violence. Many countries have already adopted laws against femicide, and advocates in Canada are pressing for similar measures to align with global standards in protecting women. While discussions are ongoing, concerns remain about slow progress in legislative action. The commitment from government officials, including Justice Minister Arif Virani, to address gender-based violence is evident. However, the implementation and urgency behind these commitments are under scrutiny, especially given the long-standing nature of violence against women in Canada, highlighted by the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women established in 1991. As advocacy continues to grow, society faces a pivotal moment to rethink and reshape its approach to femicide and broader issues of violence against women.