Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has launched a hard-hitting campaign challenging public assumptions about femicide and who commits violence against women.
The campaign warns that men who kill women do not fit one identifiable type or profile. It says perpetrators are often people already known to their victims, including partners, neighbours or trusted members of the community.
Short films challenge assumptions
A series of short films forms the centre of the campaign. Their message is that perpetrators are not necessarily visibly dangerous or easily recognisable, challenging the belief that serious violence is committed only by obvious ‘monsters’ or people hiding from public view.
The council says the campaign is intended to raise awareness, support early intervention and contribute to wider cultural change. It comes as Northern Ireland continues to experience high levels of violence against women.
According to the campaign material, almost 30 women have been killed by men in Northern Ireland since 2020. The figure is presented as underlining the urgent need to improve awareness and identify harmful behaviour at an early stage.
Message from Armagh’s Lord Mayor
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Mary O’Dowd, said the campaign was focused on an important reality about femicide.
“This campaign highlights an important reality that there is no typical perpetrator of femicide. Femicide is not committed by ‘monsters’ hiding in the shadows – it is most often carried out by men, in everyday life. If we are serious about ending violence against women and girls, we must challenge assumptions, recognise harmful behaviours early and hold perpetrators to account.”
She added:
“Ending violence against women and girls requires a collective effort and continuing to raise awareness is an important part of that work.”
Each film ends with the same message: “Men who kill women don’t fit a single profile. There is no typical perpetrator.”
Support information included
The campaign has been created by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, the Southern and South Eastern Health and Social Care Trusts, and The Executive Office.
It will run across the council’s digital channels over the coming weeks. The videos also conclude with information about support services and helplines for people affected by domestic abuse or violence against women and girls.
Anyone worried about their own safety, or someone else’s, can contact the 24-hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline on 0808 802 1414. Further help and support is also available through the council’s safeguarding information.