The 2024 Domestic Violence Death Review Report for Saskatchewan was released this week.
“Saskatchewan recognizes the need to take action to address the issue of interpersonal violence and domestic violence deaths in our province,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod said. “The recommendations in this report will inform future government responses to domestic and interpersonal violence and can serve as a roadmap for all of us to make our province safer for everyone.”
The review was completed by three multidisciplinary case review teams and a multi-ministry steering committee. They analyzed 31 domestic homicide-related deaths, including an in-depth analysis of 11 cases. The report found domestic violence-related homicide rates in rural areas were more than double those in urban areas.
Female victims made up 83 per cent of cases, while 82 per cent of perpetrators were male. Most homicides were committed by current intimate partners, with Indigenous people overrepresented as victims. The review highlighted the need for a comprehensive, coordinated approach to addressing domestic violence in Saskatchewan.
The recommendations in the report focus on education and awareness, intervention for perpetrators, victim-centred approaches, legislation and policy, services in rural and northern areas, and infrastructure development. They put the onus of change on societal systems and individuals who use violence.
As part of the review, family members and loved ones of domestic homicide victims participated in creating a piece of art to serve as a memorial for those lost. The memorial expresses loss, grief and memories, while also depicting hope for the future and for change.
“The loss of lives to domestic violence is a tragic and deeply painful outcome in which women are disproportionately victimized,” Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Alana Ross said. “We honour those lost by learning from their deaths and continuing our efforts to prevent all forms of interpersonal violence and abuse.”
The first Domestic Violence Death Review was conducted in 2016, with a final report released in 2018 to expand the understanding of domestic violence and inform future policies and practices. The 2018 report was used to develop initiatives such as funding for second-stage housing, the development of Family Intervention Rapid Support Teams, Clare’s Law, 10-day work leave (including five paid days) for survivors, expanded interpersonal violence supports through the 211 crisis line, and the Face the Issue public awareness campaign.
If someone you know may be at risk of interpersonal violence and abuse, a complete directory of resources is available at sk.211.ca/abuse.