Women’s safety is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention, as numerous lives have been tragically affected and lost. In July 2024, the National Police Chiefs’ Council declared the escalating violence against women and girls a “national emergency.” The recent release of the Angiolini Inquiry Part 2 report further highlights the dire situation, exposing our national shame in failing to address the persistent threats faced by women since the tragic death of Sarah Everard.
The inquiry was initiated following the brutal murder and assault of 33-year-old Sarah Everard by police officer Wayne Couzens, who abducted her from a bustling London street on March 3, 2021. Couzens was subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment with a whole-life order on September 30 of the same year, marking a pivotal moment in the fight for women’s safety.
The aftermath of Sarah Everard’s tragic case triggered significant changes, particularly when Metropolitan Police Chief Cressida Dick announced the arrest of a Metropolitan police officer in connection with the murder. The Metropolitan Police faced criticism for their handling of a vigil held in memory of Sarah Everard, further exacerbating concerns about women’s safety.
The Angiolini Inquiry delved into broader policing issues and the safety of women, stemming from cases like Couzens’ and former police officer David Carrick, convicted of multiple crimes in February 2023. The report emphasizes the need to address and prevent sexually motivated violence against women and girls in public spaces.
According to the report, sexual harassment has become normalized in society, leading women to be constantly on high alert, especially in environments where they feel vulnerable to such crimes. A United Nations survey revealed alarming statistics, with 71% of UK women experiencing sexual harassment in public spaces, rising to 86% among younger women aged 18 to 24.
The report also highlighted that half of the women surveyed reported feeling unsafe due to someone else’s actions in the past three years, with 76% of women aged 18 to 24 feeling unsafe in public spaces due to men’s behavior. Addressing these issues is crucial to fostering a culture of positive masculinity and ensuring women’s safety.
Lady Eilish Angiolini KC expressed great concern over the lack of data on sexually motivated crimes against women in public spaces, labeling it a critical failure in policing. The report sheds light on the bureaucratic challenges that prevent women’s experiences from being properly documented and addressed, emphasizing the urgent need for meaningful action to address these concerns.
The pervasive fear experienced by women in various settings underscores the universal struggle for safety and security. Women continually adapt their behaviors and routines to protect themselves, yet the persistent threat remains. It is imperative to empower women and take decisive steps to ensure their voices are heard and their safety is prioritized.
