Women’s safety has become a pressing issue, with numerous lives being negatively impacted or lost. In July 2024, the National Police Chiefs’ Council labeled the ongoing violence against women and girls as a “national emergency.” Following the publication of the Angiolini Inquiry Part 2 report, it has been highlighted as a matter of national shame, indicating little progress since the tragic death of Sarah Everard.
The inquiry was initiated in response to the brutal murder and assault of 33-year-old Sarah Everard by police officer Wayne Couzens in March 2021. Couzens was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a whole-life order, on September 30 of the same year. This incident marked a significant turning point in the discourse on women’s safety, particularly after Metropolitan Police Chief Cressida Dick disclosed the arrest of a police officer in connection with Sarah Everard’s murder.
The Angiolini Inquiry delved into broader issues regarding policing and women’s safety, stemming from cases like Couzens’ and former police officer David Carrick, convicted of multiple crimes in February 2023. The report emphasizes the necessity of exploring strategies to prevent sexually motivated violence against women and girls in public spaces.
According to the report, the normalization of sexual harassment and the constant vigilance women feel, particularly in vulnerable settings, have contributed to a pervasive sense of fear among women. A United Nations survey revealed that a significant percentage of UK women, especially those aged 18 – 24, have encountered sexual harassment in public spaces.
The inquiry further highlighted that half of the women surveyed reported feeling unsafe due to the actions of others in recent years, with a higher percentage among younger women. To combat this issue, one of the recommendations involves providing support and guidance to men and boys to foster a positive masculinity culture.
Lady Eilish Angiolini KC raised concerns during the press conference about the lack of accurate data regarding sexually motivated crimes against women in public spaces, emphasizing a critical failure within policing to address this issue effectively. The absence of national data on such crimes has led to a bureaucratic gap, undermining the experiences and safety of women.
The pervasive fear experienced by women, illustrated through personal anecdotes, underscores the universal challenges faced by women in ensuring their safety in public spaces. Despite taking precautions, such as altering routes or behaviors, women continue to navigate a world where their safety is not guaranteed. The report calls for urgent action to address these concerns and empower women to reclaim their sense of security.