Empowering Communities to Address Gender-Based Violence: A Grassroots Approach
Gender-based violence (GBV) is a persistent issue across Northern Ireland, affecting countless women and girls in both urban and rural areas. While statistics and awareness campaigns have highlighted the scale of this crisis, long-term change requires a proactive, community-centered approach that addresses the root causes and provides individuals with the knowledge to combat harmful behaviors.
The Scope of Gender-Based Violence in Northern Ireland Recent data from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) shows a significant prevalence of domestic abuse incidents, with 32,763 cases recorded between April 2023 and March 2024. These numbers highlight the pressing need for effective interventions that go beyond emergency responses to focus on prevention, education, and community support. A survey by the Women’s Policy Group NI (WPG) underscores the societal nature of this problem, with 91% of respondents affirming that Northern Ireland faces a serious issue with male violence against women. This survey also revealed that while 83% of women have experienced some form of violence, only a fraction felt supported when reporting it to authorities. Research from Queen’s University Belfast further emphasizes the urgency, finding that 73% of girls aged 12-17 in Northern Ireland have experienced some form of violence, demonstrating the importance of early intervention and education
The Power of Community-Led Education and Intervention
One of the most impactful ways to address GBV is through community education and empowerment. Community-focused programmes encourage open discussions, challenge harmful narratives, and build empathy by involving participants directly in workshops and real-life case studies. This type of approach enables individuals not only to recognize and understand different forms of abuse, such as stalking and coercive control, but also to feel confident in advocating for safety within their own communities. FWIN’s “Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls” programme reflects this approach. Through six sessions, participants are guided from foundational knowledge to more nuanced discussions on specific forms of violence, using role-play and case studies to build empathy. The programme concludes with practical tools for community action, encouraging participants to become advocates for change within their own circles.
Confronting the Stigma Around Gender-Based Violence
Addressing GBV also means tackling the stigma that often surrounds discussions of violence against women and girls. Many individuals are deterred from speaking out due to fear, shame, or societal judgment. Community-focused efforts provide a platform where victims and advocates can share their stories, helping to normalize conversations about GBV and dismantle the stigma that keeps many silent.
Moving Forward Together
As Northern Ireland continues to grapple with the high rates of gender-based violence, community-driven initiatives are essential for creating sustainable change. While legislation and police intervention are crucial, lasting impact is achieved when communities themselves are empowered to address these issues. By providing individuals with tools, knowledge, and support, grassroots programmes enable people to advocate for safer, more inclusive environments where every woman and girl can feel secure.
Cassie Jane
Communications, Policy & Engagement,
Foyle Women's Information Network
