A new report from The Executive Office (TEO), Ending Violence Against Women and Girls: Adult Experiences and Attitudes in Northern Ireland 2023, brings into sharp focus the realisation of gender-based violence that we are seeing continuously in our society.
Chris Quinn, said: “Femicide continues to be a persistent, urgent crisis in Northern Ireland, after the latest murder brought the number of women killed since 2020 to 25.
“The TEO report indicated significant gender disparity in sexual violence reports with 10% coming from females compared to 4% of males. This alone highlights the urgent need for awareness and education.
“During the various stops we made on our recent Road to Rights Bus Tour across Northern Ireland, many of the young girls raised their concerns about misogyny and patriarchy. We all need to be working together to change this mindset, with government, schools and communities to instill values of respect, consent, and accountability.”
NICCY has consistently highlighted the need for provision of comprehensive, factual, age-appropriate and scientifically accurate Relationship and Sexuality Education (RSE) in schools which would be crucial for reshaping attitudes and promoting healthy relationships.
The Commissioner added: “It is important our young people are taught about healthy relationships in a manner which supports the realisation of their fundamental right to education and the right to access information which is important to their wellbeing.
“I will continue to advocate for policies that protect children’s rights and create a safer place for them to live in.
“Ending violence against women and girls is not just a goal; it is imperative for our society so everyone, regardless of gender, can live in safety, and with respect.”
