Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has launched a new campaign to raise awareness about femicide and to challenge the misconceptions of who actually commits these crimes.
The campaign highlights a difficult truth – men who kill women don’t fit one type or profile. There is no ‘typical’ perpetrator. They are often people we already know – partners, neighbours or trusted members of the community.
Through a series of short films, the campaign challenges the belief that perpetrators are easily identifiable or visibly dangerous.
Northern Ireland continues to see some of the highest levels of violence against women. Since 2020, almost 30 women have been killed by men, underlining the urgent need for awareness, early intervention and cultural change.
Each film concludes with the same powerful message: ‘Men who kill women don’t fit a single profile. There is no typical perpetrator.’
Speaking about the campaign, the Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Mary O’Dowd said: “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.
“Ending violence against women and girls requires a collective effort and continuing to raise awareness is an important part of that work.”
This 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.
The campaign forms part of the council’s ongoing commitment to tackling violence against women and girls and will run across the council’s digital channels over the coming weeks.
Each video concludes with information on support services and helplines for anyone affected by domestic abuse or violence against women and girls.
If you’re worried about your safety or someone else’s, you can call the 24hr Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline on 0808 802 1414.
Or find further help and support here:Safeguarding | Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council
