Action plan for combating men's violence against women, violence and oppression

Action plan for combating men’s violence against women, violence and oppression in the name of honour and violence in same-sex relationships

Government Offices of Sweden

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The Government presents this Communication to the Riksdag. Contents

Stockholm, 15 November 2007 Fredrik Reinfeldt

1¶Introduction 4

Nyamko Sabuni (Ministry of Integration and Gender Equality)

1.1 Areas for measures and specific activities 6

2¶Basic premises 9

3¶Problem analysis 10

Brief summary of the Communication

3.1 Men’s violence against women 10 In this Communication, the Government sets out its views on how men’s violence against women, violence and oppression in the name of honour and violence in same- 3.2 Violence and oppression in the name of honour 13 sex relationships should be combated, and describes the main elements in its work 3.3 Violence in same-sex relationships 15 against such violence during the present term of office. The Action Plan contains a

3.4 Particularly vulnerable groups 16 wide range of measures in a variety of policy fields. These measures will be elaborated

4¶Measures during the present term of office 17

and specified more closely step by step. The Government intends to report back to the Riksdag on how work in this area has been conducted. 4.1 Increased protection and support to victims of violence 18

4.2 Enhanced preventive work 28

4.3 Higher standards and greater efficiency in the judicial system 31

4.4 Better measures targeting violent offenders 36

4.5 Increased cooperation and coordination 38

4.6 Enhanced knowledge and competence 40

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Action plan for combating men’s violence against women

Introduction

Sweden is in many respects a pioneer in the gender equality field, not least in terms in this respect. Closer cooperation among the various actors is essential if efforts to of how it views men’s violence against women. The situation nevertheless remains contain this type of violence are to be forceful and effective. serious. There is broad political agreement on the need to give men’s violence against

A number of government agencies are already committed to working against such viowomen high priority, but a cohesive strategy for dealing with the problem has long

lence. In the Government’s view, however, further measures of limited duration will be been lacking. Men’s violence against women is a widespread problem affecting the

required over the next few years. To a great extent, these will be measures designed to whole community, both women and men. Ultimately, it is a question of gender equal-

raise awareness and enhance knowledge and competence. The Government takes the ity and women’s full enjoyment of all human rights to which every citizen is entitled.

view that the measures set out in the Action Plan will lead to a higher level of ambi- Sweden’s commitments within the framework of UN and Council of Europe efforts in

tion in the fight against this type of violence, and that this improvement will be lasting. this area, therefore, represent an important basis for national action.

The Action Plan contains a range of proposals affecting a number of government agen- Men’s violence against women is unacceptable. So, too, is men’s violence and oppres-

cies as well as municipalities, county councils and NGOs. In the course of work with sion in the name of honour and violence in same-sex relationships. The Government’s

this Action Plan, public authorities, organisations and individuals have contributed aim is to put a stop to such violence. Women and men, girls and boys, shall have equal

valuable views and opinions. rights and opportunities in terms of physical integrity. All citizens must be able to live their lives free from the fear of being exposed to violence and abuse. If this goal is to The Action Plan proposes a range of measures, of which a number have already been be achieved, preventive and other measures targeting both potential and actual perpe- approved. The remaining measures will be implemented by the Government during trators must be strengthened and improved. Violence and oppression in the name of the present term of office. honour is one area covered by the Action Plan. This type of violence differs from others due to its collective nature, which means a number of perpetrators of both sexes may be involved and the victims may be either women or men, girls or boys. The Action Plan further extends to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people exposed to violence by their partners. All citizens at risk are entitled to the same kind of protection, support and assistance, regardless of their sexual orientation. Action to combat men’s violence against women must proceed from a judicial, social, economic and health-related perspective, and also from a gender equality perspective. In cases where children are the victims of a criminal offence or are affected by the violence in some other way, special attention must be given to their particular needs, rights and capabilities. All measures to combat men’s violence against women must proceed from the needs of the vicitms. The responsibility for supplying the necessary support and protection to those exposed to such violence lies with central and local government authorities. The activities of voluntary organisations are an invaluable complement to public activities

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1.1 Areas for measures and specific activities police and follow up their complaint. If people exposed to crime are to feel safe and

secure, they must be kept informed about how the case is proceeding and what sup- Men’s violence against women, violence and oppression in the name of honour and

port is available during the judicial process. The authorities must provide adequate violence in same-sex relationships are all unacceptable and must stop.

protection both during and after legal proceedings. The aim of the Action Plan is to present the Government’s intentions in all three areas

in a single policy document and to describe how the work is to proceed during the

Greater emphasis on preventive work

present term of office. The plan covers six areas for measures and specific activities, each of which is important in its own right but which also complement and reinforce Active and effective prevention involves both taking steps to prevent violence and

one another. stopping violence already occurring. Broad-based preventive efforts target both women

and men, including those who are not personally affected by it in their everyday lives.

Initiatives targeting both potential and actual perpetrators are a crucial part of this

These areas are:

work. Children and young people are another important target group. It is essential, • increased protection and support to victims of violence therefore, to take early action both in schools and in other contexts where children

• greater emphasis on preventive work and young people are to be found.

• higher standards and greater efficiency in the judicial system

The agencies responsible for the judicial system, the health and medical services, the • better measures targeting violent offenders

social services and the education system all have an important part to play in this • increased cooperation and coordination

respect, due to their close contact with people in everyday life. People exposed to vio- • enhanced knowledge and competence

lence and people living under threat of violence stand a better chance of obtaining the Increased protection and support to victims of violence right kind of help if professional treatment, documentation and procedures are avai-

lable and if there is greater awareness of what men’s violence against women, violence All citizens are entitled to live in safety and security. People exposed to threats and

and oppression in the name of honour and violence in same-sex relationships involve. violence must have the right to protection and support. This must be of a high stand-

The police must be able to respond and take rapid action when crimes are committed. ard, adapted to the individual and available to those who need it. People exposed to

violence must be given public support so that they may lead normal lives in freedom. If the crime prevention aspect is considered in spatial and community planning –

Public efforts must seek to prevent those who practice violence from committing especially as regards the vulnerability of women – the risk of exposure to crime in the

such crimes and thereby threatening the safety and security of others. These perpe- outdoor environment can be reduced.

trators must have their freedom curtailed, while the freedom of those exposed to

violence must be safeguarded.

Higher standards and greater efficiency in the judicial system

All crime victims are to be treated in a professional manner, whoever they may be

Combating men’s violence against women, violence and oppression in the name of and wherever they may live in the country. Sweden’s municipalities are obliged by

honour and violence in same-sex relationships is a responsibility and challenge for the law to offer crime victims the help and support they need. The municipalities must

judicial authorities. The legal chain – and in particular the police and prosecutors – particularly bear in mind that women who are or have been exposed to violence or

must function efficiently so that crimes in this area are investigated and legal proceedother forms of abuse by someone close to them may require help and support in

ings instituted with due dispatch. changing their situations. Children, too, who have witnessed violence or other forms of abuse by or against adults close to them are defined as crime victims and may be The penalties for crimes of violence must be reasonable and proportionate. By their

in need of help and support. It is important to bear in mind that children’s needs response, the authorities must clearly show how seriously they view the violation of

may differ from those of adults. personal integrity that such crimes represent to the victim.

It is vitally important that people who are exposed to crime dare report this to the Legislation relating to marriage, registered partnerships, divorce and the division of

matrimonial property must be framed in such a way as to guarantee the rights of

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people exposed to violence. This also applies to the rules regarding custody and access. of the quality assurance and competence enhancement process.

Everyone living in Sweden must be protected by the law. People’s rights must not be

curtailed on the grounds of religion or tradition.

Basic premises

People exposed to violence must be able to feel secure in their contacts with the

In preparing the Action Plan, the Government has sought to work across all areas of judicial authorities. When children come into contact with the judiciary, due attention

policy, overriding ministry and agency lines, with the perspective of those at risk as must be paid to their specific needs and capabilities.

the point of departure and based on the knowledge available on the areas concerned.

It is important, therefore, to ensure that awareness of these issues is present through-

Freedom from violence and abuse is a basic human right. The Government’s defiout the legal chain. Also, those who report crimes must be treated in a professional

nition of men’s violence against women is based on the UN Declaration on the manner by all actors in the chain.

Elimination of Violence against Women, adopted by the General Assembly in 1993.

Better measures targeting violent offenders Article 1 defines violence against women as “any act of gender-based violence that

results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering Programme activities must be available to violent offenders in the penal care system,

to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, and this must apply throughout the system. Such activities are also needed outside the

whether occurring in public or in private life.” This implies that the violence refers to system. Initiatives targeting men who use violence are to be evaluated, improved and

physical, sexual or psychological violence whether in the home or in the community quality-assured. The safety of women and children must be a key consideration in all

at large. activities directed at men in this category.

Violence and oppression in the name of honour has much in common with men’s

violence against women. As the Declaration notes, violence and oppression against

Increased cooperation and coordination

women cannot be justified by invoking custom, tradition or religious considerations. Many actors, both public and voluntary, come into contact with people exposed to

Violence also occurs in relationships between people of the same sex. The problems violence. Closer cooperation and better coordination between and within agencies and

associated with violence in same-sex relationships have much in common with men’s other actors who are in touch with victims and perpetrators of violence is essential if

violence against women but until now have seldom been brought to the fore. The people exposed to it are to receive the help they need.

Government has decided that this type of violence is also to be included in the Ac- A distinguishing feature of cooperation in this area must be an understanding of and tion Plan so as to focus attention on the needs of those at risk and not on their sexual

respect for each individual agency’s mission and competence. Regulations, procedures orientation or their choice of partner.

and differing agency methods must not without good reason stand in the way of dee-

In some countries, violence against women is accepted by the state; violence and per and broader cooperation.

oppression in the name of honour, for instance, may not be properly investigated and

prosecuted in the courts. The Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against

Enhanced knowledge and competence

Women also defines such violence as violence against women.

Greater knowledge, awareness and competence are crucial to the success of all ef-

Article 19 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child states that children are forts to combat men’s violence against women, violence and oppression in the name

entitled to protection against all forms of violence, both physical and psychological. of honour and violence in same-sex relationships. Through research and by other

Children who witness violence on the part of or against adults close to them are also means, awareness and understanding of these issues will be enhanced, as well as the

crime victims. In cases where children are the victims of a criminal offence or are competence of agencies and NGOs in contact with the victims and perpetrators of

affected by the violence referred to in this Action Plan in some other way, special violence. Learning from the experiences of other countries and working with them

attention must be given to their needs, rights and situations. to develop knowledge and effective measures is also important. The monitoring and

evaluation both of agency activities and of special initiatives in this area is a key part

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Statistics on men’s violence against women

Problem analysis

3.1 Men’s violence against women. Information concerning the extent and direction of men’s violence against women

has definitely improved in recent years. In a recently published study on security in Men’s violence against women is a widespread problem in society and a serious crime.

Swedish society (Nationella trygghetsundersökningen 2006, Brå-rapport 2007:14), 1.8 Most of the violence is perpetrated by a man with whom the woman is having a rela-

per cent of all women aged 16–79 stated that they had been assaulted at some point tionship or has had a relationship (intimate partner violence). It leads to physical and

over the past year. In terms of the total population in this age group, this translates into mental suffering and often affects the woman’s life as a whole. Violence directed at a

some 60 000 women, of whom an estimated 70 per cent were exposed to violence by woman by a man with whom she is having or has had a relationship occurs in all social

a family member, by someone else close to them or by an acquaintance. While in some groups.

cases it is a woman who is responsible for the violence, the great majority of perpetra- Restricting women’s lives, limiting their freedom and eroding their safety and security tors are men. Since the early 1990s, the proportion of women who state that they have is unacceptable in a society. Although Sweden has made considerable progress towards been exposed to violence or threat has increased. In 2006, reported cases of assaults on gender equality, the exposure of women to violence by men remains a major social women aged 15 or over numbered 25 491.

problem.

The figure below shows the number of such cases where the perpetrator was known to Children are severely affected by men’s violence against women in the home. Ac- the woman, during the period 1990–2006.

cording to Swedish Save the Children, the number of boys and girls in Sweden who

14000

Children with same-sex parents risk remaining even more ‘invisible’ than children in

12000

heterosexual families. One reason for this is that violence in same-sex relationships

10000

does not always receive proper attention since homosexuality continues to be surroun-

8000

ded by prejudice.

6000

1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 why certain men are abusive and violent. So, too, is research into more sophisticated

Source: National Council for Crime Prevention methods for helping violent men to desist from such behaviour. The fact that many

men are under the influence of alcohol or drugs when they assault women does not Since 1990, the number of reported cases has increased by an average 400 per year.

mean that intoxicants can be blamed for the violence. Drug and alcohol abuse may, According to the National Council for Crime Prevention (Brå), people’s propensity to

however, constitute a contributing factor in these men’s use of violence. If the fight to report has probably increased during this period, but a reasonable assumption is that

end men’s violence against women is to succeed, men must be involved in preventive actual violence against women in close relationships also increased in the 1990s.

and corrective action to a far greater extent than at present. This must be achieved

The term men’s violence against women includes rape and other sexual offences without jeopardising the safety and security of crime victims and others in any way. All

committed by men. Reported cases of sexual crime have more than doubled since initiatives targeting violent men must adopt a risk-and-security perspective in respect

1990. In 2006, some 12 500 sex-related offences were reported to the police, of which of the women and children involved.

4 200

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involved rape. The number of reported rapes has increased significantly in recent years, Crime statistics on men’s violence against women, however, only reflect what has been

due in part to the fact that the definition in the Swedish Penal Code was broadened in reported to the police. For all types of crime, there are generally a large number of

2005 to embrace other acts as well. unreported cases, especially when they involve violence on the part of someone with

whom the victim has or has had a close relationship. The more serious the violence Statistics relating to the crime of gross violation of a woman’s integrity give a clearer

and the less close the relationship between the perpetrator and the victim is, the picture of the relationship between victim and perpetrator. This offence consists of

more willing people are to report crimes. Official crime statistics, therefore, must be repeated acts such as assault, unlawful threat and certain types of sex-related crime

combined with other types of knowledge and research, such as the findings of victim where victim and perpetrator are or were previously married or co-habiting. As the

surveys, if a clearer picture of the extent of men’s violence against women is to be figure below shows, the number of reported cases of gross violation of a woman’s in-

obtained. tegrity has increased markedly since the offence was introduced in the Swedish Penal

Code in 1998. Costs of the violence

In a 2006 report (Kostnader för våld mot kvinnor), the National Board of Health and

Number of reported cases of gross violation of a woman’s integrity, 1998–2006

Welfare estimated that men’s violence against women in Sweden costs approximately

3000

SEK 3 billion per year, in terms of direct and indirect costs to various public sectors.

2500 Direct costs totalled approximately SEK 2–2.5 billion for such things as medical care,

the judicial system and social services, while indirect costs, including production losses

2000 and the value of voluntary work, were estimated at approximately SEK 720–76 mil-

lion. Over and above direct and indirect costs, transfers totalled an estimated SEK 690

1500

million, of which about half comprised sickness benefit. The National Board of Health

and Welfare points out that some calculations were less reliable than others and that

1000

certain aspects could not be included in the study. Consequently, the figures should be

seen as a cautious estimate of the costs to society.

500

3.2¶Violence and oppression in the name of honour

1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Source: National Council for Crime Prevention

The cultural perceptions that surround men’s violence against women in general

and violence and oppression in the name of honour are rooted in gender, power and The fact that violence against women is increasingly classified as gross violation of a

sexuality. This is confirmed by the reports of the UN’s Special Rapporteur on viowoman’s integrity is partly due to the fact that police and prosecutors have become

lence against women (see for instance ‘Cultural practices in the family that are violent better at investigating whether violence and threats were previously a feature of the

towards women’ [E/CN.4/2002/83] and ‘Intersections between culture and violence relationship.

against women’ [A/HRC/4/34]). There are many similarities in the structure and Both Swedish research and studies from other countries (including Brå-rapport

mechanisms of the violence, including the fact that it often occurs within the fam- 2001:3) show that women exposed to violence from someone close to them often suf- ily and that the victim is in one way or another dependent on and has strong emo-

fer such violence repeatedly. About half of the women who state that they have been tional ties to the perpetrator or perpetrators. The different ways in which women’s

exposed to violence say this has happened on more than one occasion. Almost a third

and men’s sexuality are perceived is crucial to an understanding of the structure and of the women who report that they have been assaulted by someone close to them

mechanisms of the violence, both as regards men’s violence against women in general lodge a further complaint with the police within 12 months. and violence and oppression in the name of honour.

Every year, an average of 30 women die in Sweden as a result of lethal violence. Of

In the case of the latter, control over girls’ and women’ sexuality is a key aspect and is these, some 17 are killed by a man with whom they have or have had a close reltion- strongly linked to family and community norms. In the honour concept, the focus is on

ship.

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virginity and chastity, and the family’s reputation and prestige are perceived to depend 3.3 Violence in same-sex relationships

on the actual, alleged or suspected behaviour of girls and women. This may be explicit

All citizens are entitled to the same kind of protection, support and assistance in to a greater or lesser degree, and family control may range from everyday forms of con-

relation to their vulnerability or risk situation, regardless of their sexual orientation. straint on girls’ and women’s lives regarding aspects such as choice of dress, social life

Violence in same-sex relationships and men’s violence against women in close relaand freedom of movement, to limiting life choices such as education and employment,

tionships have much in common. They have similar patterns whereby one party seeks marriage and divorce. In its most extreme form, the honour concept leads to threats

to restrict the other person’s life, to exercise control, to threaten violence and to actuof violence and actual violence, including lethal violence.

ally use violence. The power relationship between perpetrator and victim may be seen

The collective nature of this type of violence indicates that a number of perpetrators both as a cause of the violence and as a consequence of it. But there are also dissimi-

of both sexes may be involved, and that the victims may be either women or men, larities, which means that specialised knowledge of violence in same-sex relationships

girls or boys. It may also mean that the violence is sanctioned by the family and its is required.

immediate circle, and that this may include other women. As a result, special measures

The sex of the perpetrator and the victim impacts on how others around them perfor combating violence and oppression in the name of honour may be required in cer-

ceive the violence, how willing the person exposed to the violence is to report the tain cases. A familiarity with both such practices and with special procedures for deal-

matter and seek help, and how he or she is treated by the authorities. The heterosexual ing with them are required, for instance in connection with police investigations, when

norms of the community at large mean that violence in same-sex relationships often assessing risks, and when deciding what kind of support the victim should be given.

goes unperceived or is deemed to be of no great consequence. This in turn means

The honour concept may take different manifestations depending on cultural percep- that the community may have difficulty seeing, understanding and dealing with the

tions and religious considerations, but is not associated with any particular culture or violence, and thus providing adequate support and assistance.

religion. The concept is also found in non-religious contexts.

A Swedish study of violence in same-sex relationships (Våldsamt lika och olika 2005)

Forced marriages and female genital mutilation are specific phenomena that stem and past experience both show that homosexuals and bisexuals do not seek help to the

from the perception that both family and male honour are dependent on the sexual same extent as heterosexuals. They seldom report violence in couple relationships to

behaviour of women and girls. Arranged marriages often have a strong element of fam- the police, for instance. This may be because many people in this category have previ-

ily influence, and it is difficult to determine whether or not coercion is involved. For ously experienced unfavourable treatment by various public authorities, and do not

the individual girl or young woman – and also for young men – going against family expect to receive the same kind of help as people in heterosexual relationships. Ex-

tradition and the wishes of parents and other relatives may be such a sensitive course perience from both Sweden and other countries shows that homosexual and bisexual

that in practice it is not viable. women and men are reluctant to contact regular crime victim emergency services as to

do so presupposes a degree of openness. According to the above study, nor are they in- Violence and oppression in the name of honour also affect LGBT people.

clined to contact emergency services that have homosexual and bisexual crime victims In 2004, Swedish county administrative boards estimated that between 1 500 and as their target group, since they are unsure whether they can remain anonymous when

2 000 girls and young women were exposed to violence and oppression in the name doing so.

of honour, and that 10–15 per cent of them required sheltered accommodation. In a

Today, men exposed to violence in either same-sex or heterosexual relationships 2006 report from the National Board of Health and Welfare (Frihet och ansvar), young

have virtually no access to sheltered accommodation, and this deficiency needs to be people in their second year of upper secondary school were asked to what extent they

addressed. There are, however, a handful of operations in Sweden that people can confelt free to decide over their own lives. One of the questions, designed to indicate the

tact where staff have extensive knowledge of violence in same-sex relationships. Also, prevalence of violence and oppression in the name of honour, was whether the stu-

a number of women’s emergency shelters have embarked on training programmes that dents were worried that they themselves would not be allowed to choose their future

will enable them to deal with the special needs of lesbian women exposed to violence. partners in life. Five per cent of the girls and three per cent of the boys replied in the

The activities of the women’s shelters need to be expanded so that homosexual and affirmative.

bisexual women can receive the help and assistance they require.

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All this underlines the importance of acquiring a better understanding of violence in women were exposed to some form of violence or abuse after the age of 65. The study

same-sex relationships and of ensuring that public authorities in the judicial, social showed that significantly more older women than men were at extreme risk, i.e. that

service, health care and other fields have the knowledge and means to focus attention they were exposed to several types of assault and that the number of attacks increased

on, treat and support homosexual and bisexual women and men exposed to violence. with age. These women may also find it difficult to seek help and protection due to the

fact that people do not take their accounts seriously. Violence by older men is often

kept hidden and excused on the grounds that the perpetrator was raised in a different

3.4¶Particularly vulnerable groups

era and/or a different kind of society, or that he shows signs of illness and therefore Certain groups of women are particularly at risk from violence. Many who have

cannot be held accountable for his actions. personal experience of violence state that people focus more on their disabilities, their

Young women, too, are particularly at risk. According to the above-mentioned study foreign background, their substance abuse/addiction or their age than on the fact that

by the National Council for Crime Prevention of security in Swedish society, women they have been assaulted. National minorities experience similar problems. The Gov-

aged 16–24 are the group most exposed to sex offences (4.9 per cent compared with ernment views this situation with concern and wishes to make clear that all women

1.6 per cent of women in general). Exposure to assault and threats is also greatest exposed to violence must be given the requisite support and protection based on their

among this group of women, a situation confirmed by Statistics Sweden’s surveys of needs, whoever they may be and whatever background they may have.

living conditions. Efforts to combat violence and abuse directed at women with mental and physical

Immigrant women tend also to be particularly at risk, due to factors such as a poor disabilities need to be intensified. A number of studies of this kind of abuse (includ-

command of Swedish and a lack of awareness of the country’s laws and regulations. ing Vi är många – övergrepp mot kvinnor som använder psykiatrin. En omfångsstudie,

Newcomers to Sweden often have a limited social network, which gives violent men Utredningsinstitutet HANDU, 2007) show that disabled women are more vulnerable

greater opportunity to strengthen their hold on a woman and keep her isolated from than other women. People with disabilities are often more dependent on others and

the community. may have difficulty defending themselves against violence and abuse, especially when

the perpetrator is the victim’s carer. Perpetrators of violence can include the woman’s

contact person, teacher, superior, municipal transport service driver and relative. The Measures during the present term of office

Swedish Disability Ombudsman has noted that people with disabilities are often

The Government is adopting a broad-based approach in the fight to stop men’s viewed primarily as disabled persons or objects of care. Disabled women and their

violence against women, violence and oppression in the name of honour and violence families describe how this kind of objectification causes sexual abuse to be overlooked

in same-sex relationships. Through the measures outlined in this Action Plan, the Gosince people do not perceive women with disabilities as individuals with the same

vernment is creating the potential for a higher and more enduring level of ambition at right to physical integrity as everyone else.

national, regional and local level, on the part of government agencies, county councils

Women with substance abuse/addiction problems, especially homeless women, are at and municipalities.

heightened risk of exposure to violence and other forms of abuse. Women who abuse

NGOs operating in the areas dealt with in the Action Plan also have an important drugs and alcohol can become dependent on men and exploited by them. The causal

role, and measures will therefore be instituted to better enable their involvement in connections are sometimes the reverse; a woman may for instance abuse alcohol to

the future. Funding, however, will only be provided to NGOs that have a democratic allay the deep anxiety she feels as a result of the violence and abuse to which she is

structure and that undertake activities which promote national interests and goals. exposed. Battered women with abuse/addiction problems may find it harder to obtain help with sheltered accommodation and the like. In their contact with the authorities, The Action Plan covers a range of measures in different policy areas. The initiatives

they are not always treated with the respect that a crime victim is entitled to. outlined in the plan comprise both measures already adopted and measures that the

Government will be developing and specifying more precisely as time passes. Imple- Older women exposed to violence are more likely than other women to be in a de-

mentation of the Action Plan is to be followed up. The Government intends to provide pendency situation. According to a 2001 study by the Crime Victim Compensation

the Riksdag with regular accounts of how implementation is progressing and will also and Support Authority (Ofrid – våld mot äldre kvinnor), 16 per cent of these older

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be reporting on the outcome of the follow-up in 2010. fare to improve knowledge-based support to the social services for their work with

battered women and with children who witness violence. The board is to present its In preparing the Action Plan, the Government invited the relevant agencies and

report no later than 1 December 2009. organisations to attend two separate hearings. In addition, one of the meetings of the Council of Equality Issues was devoted to enlisting views and opinions concerning The aim is partly to support the municipalities in their implementation of the amendthe Government’s Action Plan. Prior to embarking on its evaluation, the Government ments to the Social Services Act (2001:453), but also to meet the need for knowledge will invite these actors to attend a follow-up seminar to assess progress and discuss the support to social service staff working in this field. A further aim is to find ways of disimplementation of the Action Plan. seminating information concerning knowledge, method development, experience and

good practices on an ongoing basis. In its instructions to the National Board of Health 4.1 Increased protection and support to victims of violence and Welfare, the Government emphasises that the funding should be used both to

help social service staff adapt their work to meet individual needs and to make it ac-

cessible to all who need support. This includes women with abuse/addiction problems, Amendments to the Social Services Act women with disabilities, women with foreign backgrounds, older women and women

exposed to violence in the name of honour. Measure 1: On 1 July 2007, Chapter 5, Section 11 of the Social Services Act (2001:453) was amended to clarify the obligation of social welfare committees regard-

Intensified supervision of the social services

ing the provision of help and support to crime victims.

Measure 4: The Government has decided to intensify supervision of the social services’ The amendment is intended to clarify the responsibility of municipalities to help and

work with battered women and with children who have witnessed violence. The Nasupport crime victims. The revision specifies that a municipality shall – rather than

tional Board of Health and Welfare is responsible for delivering a report on the county should – give special consideration to the needs of women exposed to violence and of

councils’ supervisory activities in December 2009. children who have witnessed violence.

The purpose of the assignment is to achieve an actively critical and inquiring super-

vision focusing in particular on the social services’ work with battered women and

Funding to municipalities to develop and strengthen sheltered housing

with children who have witnessed violence, including support to the municipalities.

for battered women

It is particularly important to examine how the social services deal with the vulne- Measure 2: The Government has decided to allocate funding to the municipalities to rability of women with disabilities, women with abuse/addiction problems, women enable them to realise the higher level of ambition proposed by the Government in its with foreign backgrounds and older women exposed to violence, and how the authobill, Social Service Support for Women Exposed to Violence (Govt Bill 2006/07:38).

rities deal with the special challenge posed by violence and oppression in the name The National Board of Health and Welfare is, together with the county administrative

of honour. As part of the task, common assessment criteria are to be drawn up for boards, responsible for following up and evaluating this initiative at national level. A supervision in this area so that it may become more distinct and more uniform across final report is to be delivered no later than 1 June 2009. the country.

The purpose of this initiative is to strengthen and improve the quality of support to battered women and their children at local level, through the work with women’s Quality assured assessment instruments for social service measures shelters and crime victim programmes etc. The funding is distributed by the county

Measure 5: The Government has instructed the Institute for Evidence Based Work administrative boards on application from the municipalities.

Practice (IMS) at the National Board of Health and Welfare to identify and assure the

quality of assessment instruments for use in the social services’ work with battered

Improved knowledge-based support to the social services

women and with children who have witnessed violence. A report is to be delivered on Measure 3: The Government has instructed the National Board of Health and Wel- 1 December 2009.

ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 20 21 ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

The purpose of the assignment is to improve the social services’ work with battered If the evaluation identifies shortcomings in risk and safety assessments, the National women and with children who have witnessed violence and to reduce discrepancies Board of Health and Welfare is to propose measures to improve the situation. In this between municipalities in this respect. A further aim is to achieve a more uniform assignment, the board is to observe how the methods and procedures used meet the assessment of what measures should be made available to the women and children. By special needs that women in this category have, due to such factors as abuse/addiction using a national assessment instrument, in the form of a scientifically based questionn- problems, disabilities, foreign background and age. aire, it will become possible for the social services to asses the situation and needs of

The mandate also includes disseminating the knowledge acquired so that services these women and children in a systematic and standardised way. Part of the assignment

targeting battered women and children who have witnessed violence are able to avail involves addressing the special needs that particularly vulnerable groups of women

themselves of the evaluated methods and procedures. have, for example older women, women with abuse/addiction problems, women with foreign backgrounds and women with disabilities. Rights of children who have witnessed violence

Measure 8: The Government intends to initiate a general review of the Criminal Funding to develop the social services’ work with risk assessment in connection with Injuries Compensation Act (1978:413) during the present term of office. This review cases of custody, residence and access is to consider in particular whether the support currently available to children who

are forced to live with violence in the family is adequate. In addition, the Government Measure 6: The Government has instructed the National Board of Health and Welfare

intends to evaluate whether these children are sufficiently well protected. to compile a report on the current state of knowledge concerning risk assessments relating to custody, residence and access, and to report on how methods in this area The Criminal Injuries Compensation Act regulates the extent to which crime vicmight be improved. A report was presented on 30 November 2007. The Government tims can be compensated for injury. A general review of the law is needed to ensure intends to give the board a mandate to initiate development work in this area. for instance that it is having the desired effect. As the result of an amendment that

became law on 15 November 2006, children who have witnessed violence against In view of the changes introduced into the Children and Parents Code (Chapter 6,

a family member may be granted this type of compensation. One of the purposes Section 2 a), which has been assigned to compile knowledge on risk assessments in

of the amendment was to spotlight the situation of such children. The Government connection with custody, residence and access reports. These changes will clarify the

intends to set up an inquiry to analyse and consider whether access to criminal injuries responsibility of social services to assess the risk of a child or someone else in the

compensation for children in this category has meant that they have received better family being exposed to abuse. Such cases may for instance concern women who are

support. exposed to violence or children who witness violence.

Evaluation and development of voluntary women’s shelter work with battered women Evaluation and development of social service work with battered women and with chil-

dren who have witnessed violence Measure 9: The Government intends to provide funding for the evaluation and devel-

opment of work at voluntary women’s emergency shelters. The Government intends to instruct the National Board of Health and Welfare to evaluate methods and procedures used in the social service’s work with battered women The voluntary women’s emergency shelters are today an invaluable complement to and children who have witnessed violence. When this assignment has been completed, the work undertaken in the municipalities on behalf of battered women. The aim of the Government intends to give the board a further mandate to initiate development this evaluation funding, as in the case of the mandate relating to social service-related work based on the evaluation findings. women’s shelter activities (see 4.1.7), is to facilitate and initiate development work The purpose of the evaluation is to initiate development work in the social services in these voluntary shelters, with a view to increasing the potential for better, more aimed at enabling improved and more knowledge-based work with battered women knowledge-based efforts in this field. The evaluation and development work is to be and with children who have witnessed violence. It is important that the evaluation undertaken in collaboration with participating women’s emergency shelters. includes an analysis of how safety aspects are considered in the various services in rela-

Extended assignment to develop programmes for the care of victims of sexual crimes

tion to battered women and, where applicable, also to children exposed to violence.

ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 22 23 ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

Measure 10: The Government intends to provide Uppsala University with funding so Training for staff providing support and services to people with disabilities that the National Centre for Knowledge on Men’s Violence against Women (NCK)

Measure 12: The Government intends to instruct the National Board of Health and can develop its mandate to draw up a national programme for the care of victims of

Welfare to produce training materials focusing on the problem of violence directed at sexual crimes.

women with disabilities. NCK at Uppsala University was assigned in February 2007 to draw up a national pro-

This training material is to be used in introduction and in-service training for personal gramme for the health care service focusing on care to victims of sexual crimes.

assistants and other care staff working with those who provide support and services to The purpose of the mandate is to improve the care of victims of sexual crimes in people with disabilities. The aim of such training is to raise awareness of the heighthe health care service. A further aim is to develop procedures for testing (taking tened risk of violence and abuse to which people with disabilities are exposed. The specimens) and documentation to ensure that the data available to the judiciary is as mandate includes taking appropriate steps to ensure that the existence of the training comprehensive and expedient as possible. material is made known to and can be used by education providers.

There is currently too little available knowledge and information on sexual violence in same-sex relationships. Also, people in these groups are less inclined to seek help. The Support to disability organisations

mandate, therefore, should be broadened to encompass violence in same-sex relation-

Measure 13: The Government intends to allocate funds to the disability organisations ships and violence and oppression in the name of honour. In order to implement the

to better enable them to detect and prevent violence against people with disabilities programme in the health care service – and also to enhance knowledge and awareness

and to support those who are exposed to violence. The National Board of Health and about both violence and oppression in the name of honour and violence in same-sex

Welfare will be instructed to distribute and follow up this targeted funding. relationships – the Government intends to allocate further funding.

Many people with disabilities belong to one or other of the disability organisations.

The Government takes the view that a targeted grant to certain specific organisations

Assignment to the county administrative boards to counteract violence and oppres-

will give these bodies a better chance of addressing the problem of violence against

sion in the name of honour

people with disabilities. This may include addressing and preventing violence against Measure 11: The Government has assigned the county administrative boards to pro- women and men with disabilities in a more systematic way, for instance by improving vide funding for measures to prevent violence and oppression in the name of honour. current information on places to which the disabled can turn for help. The Östergötland County Administrative Board, in addition to its regional mandate, is to provide funding for action at national or supraregional level against violence and op-

Enhance knowledge about violence against women in substance abuse/addiction care

pression in the name of honour. A final report on the funds requisitioned in 2007 is to

Measure 14: The Government intends to instruct the National Board of Health and be delivered no later than 31 March 2009.

Welfare to compile and disseminate current knowledge on women exposed to violence It is vital that the county administrative boards maintain their efforts to improve shel-

to those working in the substance abuse/addiction care field. The aim is to enhance tered accommodation, knowledge enhancement and preventive work. The aim of this

knowledge about the specific needs of women in this situation and about the forms of initiative is to provide the means for the relevant authorities to integrate long-term,

treatment required. sustainable work in this area into their regular work, and also as far as possible to coor-

Research shows that women with abuse/addiction problems are more prone to assault dinate work against violence and oppression in the name of honour with general work

than other women. A survey of outpatient substance abuse care in five Swedish counon combating men’s violence against women. The county administrative boards are to

ties, however, shows that only four per cent of the measures taken by the municipaliprovide consultative assistance, especially to social services working with these issues.

ties to help people with abuse/addiction problems specifically address women’s needs. The boards in metropolitan areas are to continue providing funds for the develop-

The purpose of enhancing knowledge in substance abuse care is to encourage the ment of sheltered housing. Special consideration is to be given to the needs of abused

development of forms of treatment that correspond to the specific needs of women, persons following their placement in such accommodation.

such as working through their experience of violence.

ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 24 25 ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

Increased support to women’s shelters and crime victim support centres etc measures need to be taken to strengthen protection for people exposed to threat or

persecution. The committee of inquiry will also consider whether there is a need Measure 15: The Government intends to increase the organisational funding distribut-

for supplementary economic support in certain cases where people are exposed to ed by the National Board of Health and Welfare to organisations involved in combat-

persistent and serious threat or to some other form of serious criminal behaviour. ing violence against women.

The mandate includes reviewing compliance with the rules on protection orders, and The work undertaken by voluntary women’s shelters, crime victim support centres preparing and presenting proposals for a legal solution that would enable such orders and other voluntary organisations are a valuable complement to the support services to be monitored by means of electronic surveillance. The inquiry will also present provided by the municipalities. Also, these organisations work across a broad spectrum proposals designed to make day-to-day life easier for people with protected identities. to raise awareness in the community about issues relating to men’s violence against In addition, it will consider whether legislation should be amended so as to strengthen women, violence and oppression in the name of honour and violence in same-sex protection against stalking, i.e. persistent harassment and persecution. relationships. The Government considers it necessary to increase the organisational funding distributed by the National Board of Health and Welfare to such bodies.

Inquiry into right of access and protection of address information etc in legal proceedings Funding for the development of work on violence in same-sex relationships

Measure 18: The Government has decided to appoint an inquiry (ToR. 2007:120) Measure 16: The Government intends to set aside special funding in 2008–2010 for into access and confidentiality in certain parts of the judicial system etc. The mandate crime victim emergency services and women’s shelters working against violence in includes considering how the suspects’ right of access should be regulated. A report is same-sex relationships. The funds are to be available for use in such areas as skills to be delivered no later than 1 September 2008. enhancement and the adaptation of activities so that homosexual and bisexual women

One of the purposes of the inquiry will be to establish the extent of a suspect’s right and men exposed to violence in close relationships may receive proper consideration.

of access during preliminary investigations and trials, and after a court verdict has been A small number of voluntary women’s shelters and crime victim emergency services delivered. A question of particular significance in this connection is how the right of have improved their understanding of violence in same-sex relationships and integrat- access is viewed in relation to the need to keep protected personal data secret. Hithed this knowledge into their activities. Today, a limited number of women’s shelters erto, it has been unclear whether the right of access to which a defendant is entitled have special qualifications in this area and offer support to women exposed to violence under the Code of Judicial Procedure extends to address and telephone data etc that by a partner of the same sex. The Swedish Federation for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and refers to the injured party, witnesses or co-defendants and which is subject to con- Transgender Rights also operates an emergency service for crime victims, including fidentiality at court hearings. According to the Personal Safety Commission (SOU people from the LGBT community. They can seek help for all forms of exposure to 2004:1), current regulations do not prevent sensitive address data from being kept violence, including both hate crimes perpetrated by persons unknown to them and secret from the defendant, on condition that it is not of importance to the case. The partner violence. The Government considers that a higher level of preparedness and inquiry will consider whether the present regulations give the courts sufficient power skills enhancement are both needed in this area, and therefore intends to encourage to uphold confidentiality of address data etc. such a development.

Enhanced security in courts Improved protection for people exposed to threats or persecution

Measure 19: The Government has instructed the National Courts Administra- Measure 17: The current government inquiry into stalking (Min. of Justice 2006:09, tion to evaluate certain changes in the Act on Security Checks at Court Hearings ToR. 2006:84) is reviewing the question of what measures need to be taken to (1981:1064). A report was delivered in October 2007. strengthen protection for people exposed to threat or persecution. A report is to be

All persons visiting a law court must be able to feel safe there. This applies in partidelivered no later than 30 September 2008.

cular to people who have been exposed to threats or violence. The increasingly tough The current government inquiry into stalking is reviewing the question of what

ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 26 27 ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

a given situation to provide support under the Social Services Act (2001:453). The social climate in Sweden means that greater priority must be attached to safety and

report notes that such disputes may adversely affect others besides women exposed to security in courts. In December 2006, the Government entrusted the National Courts

violence, including witnesses exposed to threats. Administration with the task of evaluating certain changes in the Act on Security Checks at Court Hearings (1981:1064). The mandate included assessing developments in respect of security risks and threats against courts, and considering whether the Inquiry to review the Social Services Act and the Care of Young Persons (Special regulations in the above act were appropriately worded. The National Courts Admi- Provisions) Act (1990:52) nistration presented its findings in a report (Allmän säkerhetskontroll i domstol – en

Measure 22: The Government intends to appoint an inquiry to review the provisions utvärdering, DV-rapport 2007:1) in October 2007. This report will serve as a basis for

concerning the protection and support of children in vulnerable situations (announced the Government’s continuing work on safety and security in Swedish courts.

in Govt Bill 2006/07:129 Utveckling av den sociala barn- och ungdomsvården m.m.).

It is vitally important to ensure that the legal basis for social services measures to help

Better information to crime victims

and support children who either are or risk being neglected, abused or maltreated Measure 20: The Government decided in the spring of 2007 to introduce statutory is brought into line with developments over the 25 years that have passed since the amendments so that both women exposed to crime and other crime victims could Social Services Act first came into force. The committee of inquiry’s mandate may receive information about when a person serving a prison sentence is in custody and include the question of whether it should be possible to start an investigation into the when that person is outside prison, and about the possibility of applying for a protec- situation of a child or young person – termed a child care investigation – without the tion order. knowledge of his or her custodian. The right of injured parties to information about an internee’s parole periods, date of release and the like, previously regulated only by the Act on Correctional Treatment in Institutions (1974:203), should as a matter of course also apply in cases where the convicted person is in custody (Ordinance [2007:102] amending the Ordinance on the Treatment of Detained and Arrested Persons etc [1976:376]). Similarly, defendants have a justified interest in information about decisions whereby sentences are served by means of electronic surveillance (Ordinance [2007:103] amending the Ordinance on Intensive Supervision with Electronic Monitoring [1994:1060]). The two amendments introduced here mean that defendants’ right to information is now viewed in a more cohesive manner.

Inquiry into municipal responsibility for those staying in the municipality

Measure 21: The Government intends to appoint an inquiry to review the provision in the Social Services Act on the responsibility of municipalities to provide services to those staying in their area. .. The Inquiry on Social Services’ Support for Women Subjected to Violence calls attention in its final report (SOU 2006:65) to the cost implications of the provision in the Social Services Act concerning the responibility of the municipality in which a person is staying to provide services and support to that person, and how this affects cooperation between municipalities. Conflicts arise as to which municipality is required in

ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 28 29 ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

4.2¶Enhanced preventive work

In-service training on violence and oppression in the name of honour

Measure 25: The Government intends to instruct one of its agencies to offer school

Methods for detecting people’s exposure to violence

heads in-service training on the problems surrounding violence and oppression in the Measure 23: The Government intends to instruct NCK at Uppsala University to fur-

name of honour. ther develop methods for including issues relating to personal experience of violence

Head teachers, teachers and other staff must be able to interpret signals if they are to into case histories in the health care service.

detect problems. A government agency will therefore be charged with offering school The purpose of the assignment is to enable health care staff to discover at an early

heads at both compulsory and upper secondary level in-service training on the prostage when women or children, or partners in same-sex relationships, are being or have

blems surrounding violence and oppression in the name of honour. been exposed to violence.

The assignment will build on the method development project undertaken by the Na- Further skills development for young women’s shelters tional Board of Health and Welfare in 2001, whereby women visiting either midwives

Measure 26: The Government has instructed the National Board for Youth Affairs to at antenatal care clinics or youth guidance centres were routinely asked whether they

take steps to combat violence and oppression in the name of honour via the activihad been exposed to violence. This procedure – previously called screening but now

ties of the country’s young women’s shelters. The board is to deliver its report on 28 more commonly referred to as questions concerning personal experience of violence

February 2008. as a part of individual case histories – proved a valuable way of detecting the presence of exposure to violence. On completion of the project, a majority of both patients and Girls and young women exposed to violence and oppression in the name of honour staff felt the procedure should be maintained as a regular feature of work at the clinics. must have access to support via the activities of young women’s shelters. The aim of The Government takes the view that the knowledge thus acquired in antenatal care the current initiative is to equip staff at the shelters with a better understanding of should be used as a basis for the introduction of such procedures in the health care how honour-related violence and oppression works and how they can reach women service as a whole. exposed to such practices. Measures are to focus on enhancing the skills of staff at

young women’s shelters through the provision of national training programmes and

local seminars – bringing together the shelters, schools, youth guidance centres, the

Virtual youth centre for sexual and reproductive health

police and social services – and also on the provision of funding for an Internet forum Measure 24: The Government has instructed the National Board of Health and Wel-

where young people can obtain information about violence and oppression in the fare to provide funding for the development of a virtual youth centre for sexual and

name of honour. reproductive health. A report is to be delivered on 31 March 2009.

The overall purpose of a virtual youth centre is to strengthen and support young New priority areas for the Swedish Inheritance Fund women and men in their personal development by furthering their chances of esta-

Measure 27: The Government has proposed new areas of priority from 2007 for the blishing sound relationships with others, by improving their health situation through

funding provided by the Swedish Inheritance Fund in connection with men’s violence information provision, and by making available reliable and easily accessible informa-

against women and violence and oppression in the name of honour. tion in areas that they may find sensitive or difficult to discuss in their regular contact with health services. This youth guidance service is to offer advice on sexual and One such priority is projects aimed at preventing violence, bullying and harassment reproductive health matters and on relationships and mental health. The centre is to and strengthening support to crime victims in the Swedish Inheritance Fund’s target be an integral part of the medical guidance service (Sjukvårdsrådgivningen SVR AB) groups. Particular attention is to be paid to projects aimed at combating violence, offering nationally coordinated and quality assured health consultation and advice on bullying and harassment due to gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation or disability. The the Internet. The mandate also includes informing the public about this new service. Government also considers it important to support projects designed to develop new

Higher standards and greater efficiency in the judicial system

ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 30 31 ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

4.3¶Higher standards and greater efficiency in the judicial system

methods for helping and supporting children and adolescents exposed to violence or who have witnessed domestic violence, and to projects aimed at combating men’s violence against young women and women with disabilities. This includes projects con-

Intensified police work to combat men’s violence against women

cerned with preventing or combating violence and oppression in the name of honour.

Measure 29: The Government has instructed the National Police Board to further The Swedish Inheritance Fund distributes project funding for the benefit of children,

intensify its efforts to combat men’s violence against women, violence and oppression young people and people with disabilities. Non-profit organisations and other volun-

in the name of honour and violence in same-sex relationships. The mandate is to run tary associations with innovative projects may apply. In 2006, the Swedish Inheritance

from 1 September 2007 to 31 December 2009. Fund granted funding totalling SEK 20 million to projects concerning violence, crime,

The measures undertaken are to cover training and education, information disseminabullying and harassment directed at its target groups.

tion and other courses of action deemed likely to strengthen regular police activities

in this area in the long term. The aim is to improve the ability of the police to proceed

Greater security for women in urban environments

in this work from the perspective of the crime victim. The purpose of the assignment Measure 28: The Government intends to allocate funds for the intensification of work is to enhance police skills and capacity in respect of such issues, and to strengthen aimed at creating a more secure local environment. public faith in the police so that more crimes may be reported. The assignment is to

be undertaken in consultation with the Swedish Prosecution Authority and others. City and other urban environments must be designed and built in such a way that

The Government also intends to review the need for allocating additional resources to people are able to lead good lives and feel both trust and a sense of community. Many

other agencies in the judicial system, including the Swedish Prosecution Authority and urban areas have environments that encourage crime, either because they are in out-

the National Courts Administration, in connection with this mandate. of-the-way places or because they are poorly lit. By their design, certain environments create fear and insecurity among those who live in them. Fear of attack is a problem for many people, particularly for girls and women, and can restrict their chances of a Improving police capability to prevent and investigate men’s violence against women

good life since they dare not use certain urban environments. With the aim to promote

Measure 30: The Government has instructed the National Police Board to ensure, in gender equality, a number of municipalities have established a dialogue with local

consultation with the Swedish Prosecution Authority, that each police authority has residents and organisations by means of what are termed security walks. These involve

access to the expertise it needs for the purpose of preventing and investigating men’s police, social service staff and citizens of different ages and backgrounds meeting to

violence against women and violence directed at children, e.g. in the form of special discuss people’s feelings of insecurity and the reasons for them, thus paving the way

family violence units. The board is to report its findings when presenting its annual for changes in the local environment and consequently a greater sense of security in

report for 2007. the community as a whole. The work of improving security for women in urban envi-

Improved skills and know-how will give the police a better chance of preventing and ronments should be led by municipal staff concerned with the preparation and imple-

investigating crimes of violence in this category. mentation of plans. If this is to succeed, both staff working with technical services in the municipality and local housing managers/providers should also be involved. The Government intends to set aside funding during the present term of office for follo- Improving police capability to provide crime victims with relevant information

wing up and supporting such a development. Urban planning with a more pronounced

Measure 31: The Government has instructed the National Police Board to take steps to gender equality perspective can liberate people from the limitations and constraints

ensure that each police authority has access to the expertise it needs for the purpose that many of them experience today.

of providing crime victims with relevant information on the public support measures

available to them. The board is to report its findings when presenting its annual report

for 2007.

Improved police ability to supply crime victims with relevant information will give

ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 32 33 ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

Min. of Justice 2007:08, ToR 2007:93). A report is to be delivered no later than 30 this group a better chance of obtaining help and support.

November 2008.

Improved police capability to prevent, detect and investigate criminal offences in the

The way people are treated in court must not deter them from contacting the courts

name of honour

or attending court proceedings to give evidence. Issues such as how parties litigant Measure 32: The Government has instructed the National Police Board to take steps

and others are treated in court are crucial to public faith in the court system. In June to enhance police skills and capability to prevent, detect and investigate violence and

2007, the Government appointed an inquiry charged with analysing communication oppression in the name of honour. The board is to report its findings when presenting

between courts and citizens, particularly as regards the treatment issue. Based on its its annual report for 2007.

findings, the committee of inquiry is to consider how such communication may be Improved skills and know-how will give the police a better chance of preventing, improved. The committee will then report its analysis, considerations and recommendetecting and investigating this type of criminal offence. dations in such a way as to provide a basis for the courts’ continuing work with these

issues.

Improving the ability of prosecutors to attend to crime victims Training programme for the improved treatment of sex crime victims

Measure 33: The Government has instructed the Swedish Prosecution Authority to Measure 36: The Government has instructed the Criminal Victim Compensation report on the measures it has taken to develop the knowledge and skills of prosecutors and Support Authority to draw up and, in consultation with other relevant agencies, and other prosecution authority staff with respect to crime victim issues, especially as provide a training programme aimed at improving the treatment of victims of sexual regards the treatment of victims. The Swedish Prosecution Authority is to present its crimes and targeting police authorities, public prosecution offices and courts of law. findings in conjunction with its annual report for 2007. Measures in respect of victims The Criminal Victim Compensation and Support Authority will deliver a report on of sexual crimes are to be reported. the assignment no later than 1 October 2009.

Professional treatment of crime victims and witnesses creates the potential for safer The purpose of the programme is to give a clearer picture of victims of sexual crimes and more secure providers of evidence. It is important, therefore, to ensure that both and improve the way they are treated in connection with complaints to police, previctims and witnesses are treated correctly during preliminary investigations and in liminary investigations and court proceedings. In the case of children exposed to sexual court. Prosecutors have an important role to play in this respect. In its appropriation crimes, the programme will focus in particular on clarifying both the particularly directions for 2007, the Government instructed the Swedish Prosecution Authority vulnerable position they are in and their needs as victims. to report back on the measures it has taken to develop the knowledge and skills of

Evaluation of the provisions concerning gross violation of a woman’s integrity

prosecutors and other prosecution authority staff with respect to crime victim issues, especially as regards the treatment of victims. Measure 37: The Government intends to evaluate current provisions concerning gross

violation of integrity and gross violation of a woman’s integrity in Chapter 4, Section

4a of the Swedish Penal Code.

Better treatment in courts

The provisions concerning gross violation of integrity and gross violation of a woman’s Measure 34: The Government has instructed the National Courts Administration and

integrity in Chapter 4, Section 4a of the Swedish Penal Code have been in force since the courts in its appropriation directions for the 2007 financial year to report what

1 July 1998. To determine how the provisions have been applied and whether they measures they have taken to ensure that parties litigant, defendants and witnesses are

have had the desired effect, and also whether the law needs changing, the Government treated correctly. This applies in particular to crime victims, including women exposed

intends to initiate an evaluation of the application of the provisions.(JU/L5) to sexual crimes of one kind or another.

Measure 35: The Government has appointed an inquiry to examine communication between courts and citizens (Utredningen om förtroende och kvalitet i domstolarna,

ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 34 35 ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

time. The situation of young people leading lives characterised by lack of freedom,

Evaluation of legislation on sexual crimes

coercion, threats and violence has received growing attention in recent years. Some Measure 38: The Government intends to appoint an inquiry in 2008 to evaluate the

are promised away in arranged marriages while they are still children, or are forced legislation on sexual crimes.

to marry, while others are exposed to threats and coercion when they try to live like

On 1 April 2005, new and reformed legislation on sexual crimes entered into force, other young people around them.

containing a series of important changes, including stronger protection against exposu-

re to sexual violations. In connection with the introduction of this legislation, emphasis Longer statutory limitation period for female genital mutilation

was placed on the need to monitor its impact and to determine whether it was being

Measure 41: A ministry memorandum (Ds 2007:1) proposes that the statutory limitaapplied in an appropriate and effective way. To determine how this new legislation has

tion period for female genital mutilation be extended so that it only commences once been applied and whether it has had the desired effect, the Government intends to

the defendant turns or would have turned 18 years of age. The proposal has been appoint an inquiry in 2008 to evaluate its application. Part of the mandate will involve

circulated for comment and the Ministry of Justice is preparing legislation in response. considering the question of lack of consent.

Genital mutilation of girls is carried out at some point between infancy and puberty,

usually at the initiative of someone in the family. Since the statutory limitation period

Stricter view of serious crimes of violence

is ten years for moderately serious breaches of the Act Prohibiting the Circumcision of Measure 39: The Government has instructed an inquiry (ToR. 2007:48 and ToR.

Women (1982:316), the offence may be statute-barred before the girl comes of age. 2007:137) to consider and propose changes to current penal legislation so as to estab-

For a variety of reasons, many cases of genital mutilation are not detected until a conlish a meeting out of punishment that reflects a stricter judicial view of serious crimes

siderable time has passed. To ensure that crimes against the above act reach the courts, of violence. The inquiry is to look at a number of areas, including assault and violation

they must come to the attention of prosecutors before the statutory limitation period of integrity. An interim report on an appropriate scale of punishment for murder is to

has elapsed. be delivered no later than 30 November 2007. A final report on the mandate is due on

31 July 2008.

Improved legal provisions on the division of property

As a society changes and develop, the seriousness with which courts view various cri-

Measure 42: New rules concerning the division of matrimonial property became law mes changes with it. The rules governing the meeting out of punishment should reflect

on 1 July 2007. how reprehensible the offence is. A stricter view of serious violations of personal inte-

grity has already developed in Sweden, e.g. regarding sexual crimes. The laws regarding On 1 July 2007, an amendment to the Marriage Code (SFS 2007:184) was introdu-

serious physical abuse, however, have not been subject to any general reforms. The ced whereby compensation awarded to a spouse for a personal injury or degrading

Government considers that there is reason for a stricter view of such offences in the treatment/abuse may be exempted from the division of property. A spouse must also

meeting out of punishment. be compensated when property is divided if the other spouse has run into debt or has

reduced his/her marital property. The purpose of the amendment is to avoid undesira-

Child marriages and forced marriages ble effects when property is divided, especially when one spouse has received criminal

injuries compensation as a result of violence on the part of the other. Measure 40: An inquiry has been instructed to analyse whether current legislation of-

Follow-up of new arrangements for the issuing of medical certificates

fers adequate protection against child and forced marriages in terms of penal sanction

(ToR 2005:152, 2006:78 and 2007:88). A report is to be delivered no later than 30 Measure 43: The Government aims to follow up the reform introducing a new system

April 2008. for the issuing of medical certificates.

In Sweden, actions against child and forced marriages has been discussed for some Medical certificates and the medical examinations that precede them are crucial to the

ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 36 37 ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

detection and investigation of criminal offences and the institution of legal proceed- violence. The purpose of the evaluations is to launch development work in the social ings. In order to improve the quality of crime-related medical certificates, a new sys- services and pave the way for better, more knowledge-based measures in this area.

If the evaluations reveal shortcomings in risk and security assessments, the National tem for their issue was introduced on 1 January 2006 (lagen [2005:225] om rättsintyg i anledning av brott). Under the new arrangements, the National Board of Forensic Board of Health and Welfare is to propose corrective measures. The board is also re- Medicine is primarily responsible for this activity. When the new system has been in quired to disseminate the knowledge acquired in the process. place for a few years, there may be grounds for reviewing how it has worked and what impact it has had. Investment in the work of the Prison and Probation Service targeting violent men

Measure 46: The Government intends to instruct the Prison and Probation Service

to introduce a special set of measures targeting men convicted of sexual crimes and

those convicted of violence in close relationships. The measures should be designed

4.4¶Better measures targeting violent offenders

to ensure that all men convicted of this type of crime are asked, when the sentence

is to be served, to take part in an appropriate programme. In addition, the Prison and Evaluation of methods and procedures used in social service work with violent male Probation Service is to intensify its efforts on behalf of these client groups in terms of offenders risk assessment, methodology, controlled release into society and collaboration with

other principals. Measure 44: The Government has allocated funding to the IMS at the National Board of Health and Welfare for the purpose of evaluating and improving current social To combat men’s violence against women in a sustainable way, measures will be service-related measures targeting men who use violence. The IMS is to present its needed targeting the men who use such violence. The Prison and Probation Service report no later than July 2010. has been working for some years with scientific, quality-tested programmes directed at

offenders convicted of sexual crimes and those convicted of violence in close relation- The purpose of the evaluation is to determine impact, i.e. whether male violence and

ships. These programmes must be scientifically shown to have an impact on recidivism. threatening behaviour has diminished. The study is to include how the women and

If further offenders of the type to which the Action Plan refers are to be reached with children involved experienced the threats and violence. It will also contain an analysis

such activities, these must be made available to a wider circle of prison service clients, of how and to what extent the various operations ensure the safety of the women and

including those with a mother tongue other than Swedish. Programme activities tarchildren concerned. In addition, the report is to show how documentation, follow-up

geting men convicted of sexual crimes and of violence in close relationships must also and evaluations are dealt with. A further requirement is an analysis of how the ope-

be developed further, along with risk assessment methods in respect of these clients, rations live up to the goal of persuading men to assume responsibility for and under-

which also affect parole and release decisions etc during their incarceration Collaborastand the consequences of their actions, and, where the man is a parent, of making him

tion between the Prison and Probation Service’s various branches of activity and with realise that the violence he commits against the woman also affects the children.

other agencies and principals is to be intensified. In this connection, special attention

should be given to improving opportunities for controlled release into society, com-

Development of social service work with violent male offenders

bined with support measures on behalf of such inmates to combat recidivism. Measure 45: The Government intends to instruct the National Board of Health and Welfare to develop methods and procedures for social service-related measures target- Improved conditions for the Prison and Probation Service’s programme activities ing men who use violence. The assignment is to be coordinated with the above-men-

Measure 47:In a bill amending penal care legislation, the Government has proposed tioned evaluation assignment (Measure 44).

making changes in the Prison Treatment Act (1974:203) concerning the right of The outcome of the evaluations in 4.4.1 is to provide a basis for a better, more uni- inmates to possess personal property (Govt Bill 2006/07:127). These changes authorform level of methodology in social service-related measures targeting men who use ise the Prison and Probation Service to ban the possession of books, newspapers and

ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 38 39 ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

magazines deemed to have a detrimental effect on the treatment an inmate is under- that are in the process of developing similar models. going. It is proposed that the amendments enter into force on 1 April 2008.

These funds may be used to develop models for cooperation that also include efforts If the Prison and Probation Service’s efforts to combat recidivism are to have the de- to combat violence and oppression in the name of honour and violence in same-sex sired effect, it is self-evident that the rules regarding possession of property must not relationships, and additionally for cooperation to combat violence against particularly run counter to them. It must be possible, therefore, to forbid inmates to possess books, vulnerable groups of women. newspapers and magazines deemed to obstruct the treatment they are receiving. Such a regulation makes it possible to prevent inmates convicted of sexual crimes, for

Development of physical environments for the investigation of violence against women

instance, from having pornographic magazines in their possession.

Measure 50: The Government intends to instruct the National Police Board to take

steps to develop a physical environment that is specially adapted to the investigation

of crimes of violence and other forms of abuse directed at women. The location, design 4.5 Increased cooperation and coordination and furnishing of such premises, and the choice of technical equipment and other aids,

is to be based on and adapted to the requirements deriving from the situation of wom-

en at risk. Since the overall aim of the assignment is to develop a model for nationwide

Support for the coordination of regional initiatives

use, an important part of the work will involve disseminating information about the Measure 48: The Government has instructed the county administrative boards to initi- work and receiving study visits. The work is to be undertaken jointly with the police ate and support, within their areas of responsibility, regional coordination of efforts authority in Skåne, and activities are to be based on the collaboration between the both to combat men’s violence against women and on behalf of children who witness police authorities of Skåne and the City of Malmö initiated as part of the Programme violence. A report is to be delivered no later than 1 May 2009 . for Combating Violence against Women. The aim is to ensure effective and legally secure support for women exposed to vio- A woman who is exposed to violence is in a highly vulnerable and dangerous position. lence and children who have witnessed violence. Exchanges of knowledge and good If public efforts on her behalf are to be effective and helpful, the woman herself must practices should be encouraged. Important actors are to be found in the judicial sys- be given every opportunity to contribute. This means that in addition to effective tem, the social services and the health care service, and among voluntary organisations. legislation, adequate staff resources and individual skills, an appropriate physical envi-

ronment must be available where premises and technical equipment for interrogation

etc are adapted to the woman’s situation and the working methods in use. Extensive

Support for local cooperation to counteract violence against women

collaboration between relevant authorities and organisations is crucial to a successful Measure 49: The Government intends to allocate funds for local cooperation to coun- outcome in this respect. teract violence against women at municipal level. In several parts of the country, government agencies and voluntary organisations that Dissemination of knowledge and information concerning issues relating to violence come into contact with the problem of violence have developed models for joint and oppression action to combat men’s violence against women. These models are based on a com-

Measure 51: The Government intends to strengthen the financing of the NCK at prehensive, integrated approach to the problem: the woman is given the support and

Uppsala University to enable it to disseminate knowledge and information concerning protection she needs, the children are given the opportunity to work through their

violence and oppression in the name of honour and violence in same-sex relationships. experiences, and the man is offered programme measures to help him deal with his violent behaviour. This collaboration is undertaken at local level. One of the tasks of the NCK is to disseminate knowledge and information about

men’s violence against women, to provide training on this subject, not least to health The Government intends to allocate funding both to municipalities that have already

care staff and other staff categories, to monitor, compile and disseminate research findinitiated such joint efforts, to enable them to evaluate progress, and to municipalities

ings and to analyse the need for further research in this area, to conduct research asso-

ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 40 41 ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

ciated with clinical activities, and to act as a source of support for government agencies pal aim is to determine what experience the teachers have of holocaust education and and organisations on issues relating to men’s violence against women. how in their opinion it is viewed by students. The survey also examines what values

teachers hold and their attitudes in respect of other community matters. The Govern- The NCK has a key role to play as regards the dissemination of knowledge and in-

ment considers it important that a study be undertaken in connection with this survey formation about men’s violence against women. There is a need for this work to be

focusing on teachers’ level of awareness concerning violence and oppression in the widened to encompass violence and oppression in the name of honour and violence in

name of honour. This study would examine the extent to which teachers are aware of same-sex relationships.

violence and oppression in the name of honour in their particular student groups. The

questions concerning this form of violence are to be included as a part of the larger

teacher survey. The purpose of this mandate is to enhance the knowledge on which

4.6¶Enhanced knowledge and competence

future efforts in this area may be based.

Establishment of a research programme Survey of arranged marriages

Measure 52: The Government intends to establish a research programme encompass- Measure 54: The Government intends to initiate a survey into the prevalence in ing men’s violence against women, violence and oppression in the name of honour and Sweden of marriages arranged against a person’s will. The mandate will also include asviolence in same-sex relationships. sembling an overview of the knowledge available in this field among relevant agencies.

The report is to include proposals for preventive action Further knowledge is needed concerning men’s violence against women. The Government intends, therefore, to establish a research programme aimed at improving Not all young people are able to decide for themselves when and who they will marry. knowledge in this area, by such means as developing research-based working methods Marriages arranged against a person’s will may have cultural, social or economic for action targeting both women exposed to violence and children who have witnes- causes. In such circumstances, family formation, marriage and divorce may be a colsed violence, and interventions targeting violent men. In order to prevent and combat lective matter that leaves little scope for individual choice on the part of the person violence against women in the long term, more knowledge is required not only con- concerned. Such practices affect girls and boys, women and men, but girls and women cerning the impact of such crimes on the victim but also concerning the perpetrator. are particularly exposed. Defying family tradition and the wishes of parents and other Consequently, closer study is needed both of those who commit the violence and of relatives may be such a sensitive course for young women – and for young men – that methods and developments relating to their treatment. The research programme will in practice it is not a viable alternative. also cover violence and oppression in the name of honour and violence in same-sex

Enhanced knowledge on the extent of arranged marriages against a person’s will is relationships.

needed, and also information on the underlying causes. The level of competence

among agencies that come into contact with people who risk being exposed to such

Survey of violence and oppression in the name of honour

marriages needs to be reviewed, and recommendations on preventive action are also Measure 53: The Government has instructed the Living History Forum to conduct a needed. nationally representative survey of the extent to which teachers at compulsory school

The Government will assign the National Board for Youth Affairs to conduct such a (Years 6–9) and upper secondary school are aware of violence and oppression in the survey. The assignment should be carried out in consultation with relevant agencies name of honour directed at children and young people, especially girls and young and with organisations possessing specialised knowledge in this field. women. A report is to be delivered no later than 31 March 2008. The Living History Forum has initiated a nationally representative survey of teachers, undertaken in cooperation with the Centre for Research in International Migration and Ethnic Relations at Stockholm University and with Statistics Sweden. The princi-

ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 42 43 ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

Training mandate for the National Board for Youth Affairs

Organisations and agencies that have taken part in

Measure 55: The Government has instructed the National Board for Youth Affairs to hearings

provide training programmes targeting staff charged with coordinating and developing

leisure-time activities, social services and education at municipal level. Other groups When developing the Action Plan to combat men’s violence against women, violence

may also be affected. A report is to be delivered on 31 March 2009. and oppression in the name of honour and violence in same-sex relationships, the

Government invited a number of organisations and agencies to contribute their views Staff working with the provision of out-of-school services, social services and edu-

at an early stage in the proceedings. The following took part: cation must have adequate knowledge about men’s violence against girls and young

women and about violence and oppression in the name of honour, which mainly

affects girls and young women but which can also affect boys and young men. To this

end, they should have access to training in such matters. The purpose of this training

is to ensure that the participants are aware of issues relating to men’s violence against Hearing with NGOs, 7 May 2007

girls and young women, and especially of the situation of people exposed to violence Forum – Women and Disability in Sweden (Forum Kvinnor och handikapp)

and oppression in the name of honour. The training programmes should also provide

Men for Gender Equality (Män för jämställdhet) knowledge on how those affected by such violence can be strengthened and given

National Association for International Immigrant Women access to the support available. In addition, the programmes are to discuss current

(Riksförbundet internationella föreningen för invandrarkvinnor, RIFFI) methods in connection with youth work for preventing men’s violence against women

National Association of Swedish Crisis Centres for Men . Such training must focus in particular on the question of which preventive measures

(Riksorganisation Sveriges professionella kriscentra för män) and methods are appropriate and applicable.

National Organisation of Women’s and Girls’ Shelters in Sweden

(Riksorganisationen för kvinnojourer och tjejjourer i Sverige, ROKS)

Inquiries concerning women who died as the result of a crime in a close relationship

Swedish Amnesty Measure 56: The Government intends to instruct the National Board of Health and

Swedish Association for Victim Support Welfare to investigate and analyse the prospects for introducing inquiries that focus on

(Brottsofferjourernas riksförbund, BOJ) women who died as the result of a crime in a close relationship.

Swedish Association of Women’s Shelters The purpose of such inquiries is to analyse whether and if so how the public safety net (Sveriges kvinnojourers riksförbund, SKR)

has failed. By systematically analysing cases where women have died as the result of a Swedish Federation for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Rights

criminal offence in a close relationship (intimate partner violence), the board can draw

(Riksförbundet för homosexuellas, bisexuellas och transpersoners rättigheter, RFSL) the kinds of conclusions that are essential to the task of supporting and protecting

Save the Children Sweden (Rädda Barnen) women in close relationships. Such inquiries can, for instance, review both the extent

Terrafem to which certain agencies have been aware of the situation and what measures have

Swedish Association for Sexuality Education (Riksförbundet för sexuell upplysning, RFSU) been taken or could have been taken as a result of this awareness.

Uppsala Reception Centre for Men (Mansmottagningen i Uppsala)

ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 44 45 ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

Hearing with government agencies, 28 May 2007 Meeting with the Council of Equality Issues, 23 May 2007

Children’s Ombudsman (Barnombudsmannen) Business and Professional Women Sweden Crime Victim Compensation and Support Authority (Brottsoffermyndigheten) Equal Opportunities Ombudsman (Jämställdhetsombudsmannen) National Agency for School Improvement (Myndigheten för skolutveckling) Foundation of Womens Forum (Kvinnoforum) National Board for Youth Affairs (Ungdomsstyrelsen) Fredrika Bremer Association (Fredrika Bremer förbundet) National Board of Health and Welfare (Socialstyrelsen) Green Women (Gröna kvinnor) National Centre for Research into Men’s Violence against Women Haro, National Association for Freedom of Choice, Gender Equality and Parenthood (Nationellt kunskapscentrum för frågor om mäns våld mot kvinnor) (Haro – riksorganisationen för valfrihet, jämställdhet och föräldraskap) National Council for Crime Prevention (Brottsförebyggande rådet) Liberal (Party) Women (Liberala kvinnor) National Courts Administration (Domstolsverket) Men for Gender Equality (Män för jämställdhet) National Institute of Public Health (Statens folkhälsoinstitut) Moderate (Party) Women (Moderatkvinnorna) National Police Board (Rikspolisstyrelsen) National Association for Home and Society (Riksförbundet Hem och samhälle) Prison and Probation Service (Kriminalvården) National Association for International Immigrant Women Public Prosecution Service (Åklagarmyndigheten) (Riksförbundet internationella föreningen för invandrarkvinnor, RIFFI) Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions Swedish Sami Association (Svenska samernas riksförbund) (Sveriges kommuner och landsting, SKL) National Organisation of Women’s and Girls’ Shelters in Sweden Swedish Disability Ombudsman (Handikappombudsmannen) (Riksorganisationen för kvinnojourer och tjejjourer i Sverige, ROKS) Östergötland County Administrative Board (Länsstyrelsen Östergötland) Soroptimist International

Swedish Association for Sexuality Education (Riksförbundet för sexuell upplysning, RFSU)

Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions

(Sveriges kommuner och landsting, SKL)

Swedish Association of Women’s Shelters (Sveriges kvinnojourers riksförbund, SKR)

Swedish Women’s Europe Network (Svenska kvinnors Europa nätverk)

Swedish Women’s Left Association (Svenska kvinnors vänsterförbund)

Swedish Women’s Lobby (Sveriges kvinnolobby)

The ‘Women Can’ Foundation (Föreningen Kvinnor Kurdistan)

The 1.6 Million Club (1.6 miljonersklubben)

The Centre Party (Centerpartiet)

The Christian Democratic Party (Kristdemokraterna)

The Green Party (Miljöpartiet de gröna)

The Liberal Party (Folkpartiet)

The Social Democratic Party (Socialdemokraterna)

Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, Swedish section

(Internationella kvinnoförbundet, IKFF)

Women’s International Zionist Organisation

ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 46 47 ACTION PLAN FOR COMBATING MEN’S VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

Ministry of Integration and Gender Equality

Extract of the minutes of the Cabinet Meeting held on 15 November 2007

Present: Prime Minister Reinfeldt, Ministers Olofsson, Odell, Ask, Husmark Pehrsson, Larsson, Erlandsson, Torstensson, Hägglund, Björklund, Carlsson, Littorin, Borg, Malmström, Sabuni, Billström, Adelsohn Liljeroth, Tolgfors and Björling.

Presentation: Minister Sabuni

The Government adopts Communication 2007/08:39 Action Plan for combating men’s violence against women, violence and oppression in the name of honour and violence in same-sex relationships.

Produced by Utrikesdepartementet och Integrations- och jämställdhetsdepartementet 2008 Print: Jernstöms offset, february 2008 Design: Liedgren Design Illustrationer: Tove Siri Antonsson www.regeringen.se

Government Offices of Sweden