Family and intimate partner violence in Canada is on the rise, with a 17 per cent increase in police-reported family violence and a 13 per cent increase in intimate partner violence from 2018 to 2023. The total number of victims of family violence was 139,020, and for intimate partner violence, it was 123,319 in 2023. Both men and women are experiencing an increase in violence, with larger increases noted for men and boys. Humberto Carolo, CEO of White Ribbon, highlighted the concerning nature of the data and suggested that the numbers are likely underreported as many individuals do not come forward or seek support. The data showed that women and girls continue to be the primary victims of family and intimate partner violence, with reports for women and girls being double and nearly four times higher, respectively, compared to men and boys.
The disproportionate impact of violence on women and girls is attributed to power imbalances between men and women, as well as societal pressures that may encourage men to be dominant and suppress their emotions. Carolo noted that many men may resort to violence as a way to address their emotions or control situations, leading to significant impacts on women and girls who are on the receiving end of the violence. The rates of family violence and intimate partner violence against men and boys have increased by 19 per cent and 20 per cent, respectively, between 2018 and 2023, compared to a 15 per cent rise in family violence and a 12 per cent increase in intimate partner violence for women and girls during the same period. This rise may reflect greater awareness and education following the Me Too movement, encouraging more men to step forward and seek help.
Research suggests that men and boys who experience intimate partner violence may be more reluctant to report it due to the stigma surrounding male victims. Some men and boys find it difficult to discuss intimate partner violence because of societal expectations to appear strong, in control, and not in need of help. Carolo highlighted the importance of breaking stereotypes and encouraging men to seek support to prevent violence from escalating. Family violence against children, youth, and seniors also reached a record high in 2023, with most family violence against children and youth coming from parents, and against seniors being perpetrated by their children in 35 per cent of cases. There is a need for greater investment in primary prevention, increased awareness for men and boys, and community programs to prevent violence.
Carolo emphasized the importance of speaking up when witnessing signs of violence, whether at home, in the neighborhood, or in the workplace, as violence is a public matter that requires collective action to address and prevent. He suggested that ending police biases, providing better training and capacity to law enforcement, and developing community programs could help curb the prevalence of family and intimate partner violence. Ultimately, all Canadians have a responsibility to help put an end to violence and support those who are experiencing it. By raising awareness, breaking stereotypes, and encouraging men and boys to seek help, progress can be made towards reducing family and intimate partner violence in Canada.
