Canada-wide study investigates 662 victims of domestic homicide since 2010

There have been at least 662 victims of domestic homicide in Canada since 2010 and the numbers continue to rise. On average, that’s well over 70 victims per year, according to a five-year, national initiative being led by researchers at Western University and the University of Guelph.

Consistent with Statistics Canada figures and global estimates, these data also show that domestic homicide remains a deeply gendered crime with 80% of adult victims and 59% of child victims in Canada being female. In 2017, citing the most recent official figures, Statistics Canada reported that the rate of intimate partner homicide was 5 times greater for females than for males, a consistent pattern over time.

However, those involved in the Canadian Domestic Homicide Prevention Initiative for Vulnerable Populations (CDHPIVP) recognize the threat is even greater for Indigenous women (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit), those living in rural, remote or northern areas, and children exposed to domestic violence. Further, there are specific challenges faced by immigrant and refugee women. While sharing risk factors with other victims, these groups experience additional barriers that make it more difficult for them to report their experiences of violence and to access the necessary services.

For the full CDHPIVP report and downloadable infographics, please visit http://cdhpi.ca/press-release-september-25-2019

For more information, please contact the CDHPIVP Project Manager Anna-Lee Straatman at astraat2@uwo.ca or call 519-661-2111, ext. 81133 or toll-free at 1-844-958-0522.

MEDIA CONTACT: Jeff Renaud, Senior Media Relations Officer, 519-661-2111, ext. 85165, 519-520-7281 (mobile), jrenaud9@uwo.ca, @jeffrenaud99

ABOUT WESTERN
Western delivers an academic experience second to none. Since 1878, The Western Experience has combined academic excellence with life-long opportunities for intellectual, social and cultural growth in order to better serve our communities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western attracts individuals with a broad worldview, seeking to study, influence and lead in the international community.