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DEBATE. Widespread crime in the streets and squares is one of the hottest topics of debate today, especially in Västra Götaland. Several municipalities in western Sweden bear witness to the increase in crime and crime. At the same time, BRÅ’s safety survey shows that several residents of Gothenburg, among other places, feel an increased risk of being exposed to crime.
In the absence of government support, local politicians themselves are trying to find solutions to the current crisis. In the search to regain security in the municipalities, however, a large part of the population is forgotten. Because when the danger of being in the wrong place at the wrong time is debated, those whose violence and danger are unseen are forgotten. While men are at higher risk of being exposed to violence in public, violence against women takes place behind closed doors. Surveys show that nearly one in three women has been exposed to violence in close relationships. Despite this, no notable studies are conducted on women’s perceived safety or fear of being exposed to crime.
Politicians often debate solutions to shootings and crime in society, but are seldom heard about the crisis women are living in. A crisis that existed long before the shootings became a problem in western Sweden and a problem that will continue to exist long after. However, there is no talk of a comprehensive package of measures that extends to various activities or municipalities. Women are not protected from the perceived insecurity that prevails in much of western Sweden, but for many the risk of being exposed to crime increases when they return home.
November 25 of each year marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. The purpose is to recall the UN Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women. Violence is present in all cultures and in all social classes. But it is at the municipal level where there are great opportunities to solve problems. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to pay attention to the day annually also here in western Sweden.
This year, however, the day is perhaps more important than ever. With the advent of the corona pandemic in our daily lives, the lives of many women have become increasingly difficult. Constant anxiety about work, livelihoods, and disease in society increases the risk of violence in close relationships. Now we see when the second wave arrives in how society, after new local and national restrictions, closes. When isolation from your abuser is also the only option, even home is not a safe place. Women’s shelters in the west have witnessed increased calls as businesses struggle with scarce resources to help as many as possible. Vulnerable women should not have to rely solely on non-profit organizations, but should receive the support of the municipality and the region that is needed to escape violence and oppression.
Despite this, there are no routines that extend to various activities within the municipality and region in order to handle violence against women. Additionally, many municipalities rely on non-profit women’s shelters for protected housing, even though it is part of the responsibility of the municipality. Too many people lack the skills and interest to solve other crimes when it comes to men’s violence against women. Therefore, make this day the most important of this year. We must increase competition over male domestic violence throughout society. At the same time, the municipalities and the region must assume their responsibility to help these women by ensuring that there is housing and support in each municipality. The tough times we live in now are just another reminder to prioritize protected housing. The honor-related violence support center that will now be established in Gothenburg is a good start. But more similar initiatives are needed to include more women living under violence. Above all, it is necessary to make investments throughout western Sweden. The municipalities and the region must show which side they are on.
Lovisa Gustafsson
Member of the federal MUF board
