Considering the ongoing epidemic of violence against women, which has been a longstanding issue, it is important to treat these crimes as a national emergency. Nearly 50 years ago, women in Leeds and other cities took to the streets demanding safety from violence and abuse, highlighting the need for safe streets for themselves and their loved ones. However, progress has been slow, with women still facing threats to their safety on a daily basis, as highlighted by actress Saoirse Ronan on a television show. The recent tragic murder of Harshita Brella emphasizes the urgency of addressing these issues.
The aim of the newly elected Labour Government is to halve violence against women and girls within a decade, a bold and unprecedented mission that requires a united effort from all sectors of society. Strengthening action from policing and the criminal justice system is crucial, as highlighted by the tragic case of Raneem Oudeh and her mother, who were failed by the system despite multiple calls for help. The introduction of Raneem’s Law, which includes domestic abuse specialists in emergency control rooms, and new Domestic Abuse Protection Orders are steps towards providing better protection for victims.
The This Is Not Right campaign launched by Metro aims to shed light on the prevalence of violence against women and empower readers to take action. Preventing abuse in the first place is essential, and efforts are being made across different government departments, such as Education, Transport, and Technology, to strengthen prevention measures. It is emphasized that tackling violence against women and girls is a collective responsibility that requires the participation of everyone in society, with initiatives like the This Is Not Right campaign playing a crucial role in raising awareness and driving change.
Despite the efforts being made to address violence against women and girls, progress has been slow and more action is needed. There is a moral imperative to tackle this issue, not only for the sake of the current generation but also for future generations. It is time to declare that our streets will not be a haven for abusers and rapists, and to take concrete action to ensure the safety of women in all aspects of their lives. Initiatives like the This Is Not Right campaign provide a platform for dialogue and engagement on this critical issue, encouraging individuals to play a part in creating a safer society for all.
