EDITORIAL: Domestic violence: call to action

The horrific series of domestic killings and murder-suicides across the country suggests strongly that something has gone awfully wrong in this society. It is now time to repair our broken families and deal with this epidemic decisively.

As the tally of women murdered by their intimate partners rises, we need to recognise that domestic violence is a public health and safety issue with far-reaching consequences for individuals, workplaces, schools, and the community in general.

Domestic violence often goes unacknowledged until there is murder. In the aftermath of these recent tragedies, we are left examining ourselves to determine whether we are equipped to help a victim of domestic violence, or even whether we have any responsibility in helping to break the endless cycle of violence that shadows our communities.

Trying to prevent domestic violence is not easy, as the abuse is usually confined within the home. Indeed, it can be a very complicated issue, often ending with the battered partner backing down and refusing to take action. However, as the police come to investigate these murders, they are likely to find that there were telltale signs. Domestic murder rarely happens without warning. This suggests that reports of domestic violence ought to be meticulously investigated and the threats assessed and dealt with according to the potential risk to the complainant.

It may be tough to prevent the abuse, but the abuser should be held accountable for his actions. And abusers should be sent a message that the society will not tolerate violence against women and children.

Prosecution of domestic abusers should be swift and sure to reinforce this message. Meanwhile, there appears to be deep fissures in the legal system that allow an alleged abuser to be let out on bail, even in the face of objections from the police, as appears to have been the case in one of the recent Manchester killings. That decision requires urgent re-examination.

Society not blameless

Every time a woman, her children and other family members are killed by her spouse, society is to blame. It is the society that failed to hold the abuser accountable and failed to keep the victim and her family safe.

The criminal-justice system, although a critical component in finding solutions, cannot accomplish much on its own but must work with community partners such as the Church and NGOs to mount an effective, sustainable and practical campaign against domestic violence.

We live in a violent environment. And the experts say those who witness violence, without intervention, are likely to perpetuate the cycle of violence for generations. This means that leaders in law enforcement, advocacy and social services have to spring into action to ensure that the resources are available to intervene in potentially dangerous situations, offering counselling to both the victim and perpetrator. This extends to advocating for legal reforms which will deal with repeat offenders of domestic abuse, set stringent guidelines for bail, and other measures which will serve to treat domestic violence with the seriousness it deserves.

Tragically, and all too frequently, domestic abuse is a murder waiting to happen. We need a massive education campaign in this country to reinforce the need to keep awareness of domestic violence high while helping us to recognise tendency for such behaviour because, if left unchecked, it can and will lead to murder.

People used to treat domestic violence like a private little secret within the family. However, when people are dying, it affects everyone. Early intervention may save a life so see this as a clarion call to action to save our women from their abusive partners.

The opinions on this page, except for the above, do not necessarily reflect the views of The Gleaner. To respond to a Gleaner editorial, email us: editor@gleanerjm.com or fax: 922-6223. Responses should be no longer than 400 words. Not all responses will be published.