Intimate partner violence (IPV) and family violence continue to be problems in Canada. Women and girls are more likely than men and boys to be affected by this violence. In contrast, men are more likely to be perpetrators of violence. Causes of IPV and family violence include gender inequality and patriarchal values. IPV and family violence are often rooted in power and control. Levels of IPV and family violence have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.

IPV and family violence can have significant negative mental and physical health consequences, and in extreme cases the consequences can be deadly. In addition, IPV and family violence can contribute to other negative effects such as poverty and homelessness.

While research exists on the causes and effects of IPV and family violence in Canada, some gaps in data remain. There are gaps in data on experiences of IPV and family violence for individuals with intersecting identity factors. For example, there are not many data on the experiences of IPV and family violence among racialized women and girls in Canada.

For individuals fleeing IPV and family violence, access to support services like shelters and transition homes are important. In Canada, some individuals face challenges in accessing these services. These challenges include a lack of available shelter spaces and other services, economic insecurity, living in rural and remote geographic locations, lack of public transportation, and a reluctance to report or seek help from authorities. Some survivors with intersecting identities, like survivors who are immigrants, Indigenous individuals, or survivors with disabilities, may face additional barriers in accessing services. Witnesses said that survivors need services that meet their needs and that are trauma-informed. These services should also be culturally sensitive and should be offered in Indigenous languages, as well as languages other than French and English.

Changes to certain aspects of Canada’s justice system could be helpful in addressing IPV and family violence. For example, the possibility of criminalizing coercive control, as well as providing IPV and family violence education and training to professionals in the justice system, including judges, lawyers and law enforcement, were suggested by witnesses. Witnesses also suggested that new legal initiatives could be beneficial. These new initiatives include specialized courts, alternative and restorative justice approaches, enacting legislation like Clare’s Law and Bill C-233, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Judges Act (violence against an intimate partner) as well as legal efforts to address financial and economic abuse. Finally, witnesses said that survivors involved in the justice system need services, like legal aid and support, in addressing parental alienation claims.

Preventing IPV and family violence is essential. For example, efforts to raise awareness about IPV and family violence are important for all individuals in Canada, including individuals who are newcomers to the country. As well, education for youth about healthy relationships and IPV and family violence is vital for all children and youth in Canada. Engaging men and boys is crucial in preventing IPV and family violence. Finally, witnesses underlined the importance of implementing the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence as well as the Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.