Women’s safety and gender-based violence

The Equality and Social Justice Committee has been considering an inquiry into violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence (VAWDASV). As part of its initial consideration, and in recognition of the breadth of the topic, the Committee held a roundtable discussion with key stakeholders in order to inform its approach.

Following this session, and as a result of the feedback received, the Committee agreed to take forward its work in stages:

1. The Committee held a short inquiry into Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence – migrant women. Discussions during the roundtable session highlighted migrant women as a key neglected group, whose needs are not currently being properly met and who are likely to experience violence in a different way to other girls and women. The Committee published its report on 26 October 2022.

2. The Committee held an inquiry into the public health approach to preventing gender-based violence, taking evidence during  Spring/Summer 2023.