Women’s safety is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention, with numerous lives impacted by violence and tragedy. In July 2024, the National Police Chiefs’ Council labeled the widespread violence against women and girls as a “national emergency.” Following the release of the Angiolini Inquiry Part 2 report, it has become evident that the current situation is a national disgrace, highlighting the lack of progress post 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, 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.
This case marked a pivotal moment for women’s safety, sparking a significant shift in attitudes. The revelation by then Metropolitan Police Chief Cressida Dick that a police officer was arrested for Sarah Everard’s murder in March 2021 led to increased scrutiny of the Metropolitan Police’s handling of the situation, particularly their treatment of women at a vigil for Sarah Everard.
The Angiolini Inquiry delved into broader policing issues and women’s safety concerns arising from cases like Couzens and former police officer David Carrick, who was convicted of 49 crimes in February 2023. A key focus of the report is exploring measures to prevent sexually motivated violence against women and girls in public spaces.
The report highlights that society has normalized sexual harassment, leading women to be constantly vigilant in public spaces, especially during nighttime, in parks, or on public transport. A United Nations survey revealed that 71% of UK women have experienced sexual harassment in public, with the number escalating to 86% among younger women aged 18 to 24.
According to the Angiolini Inquiry, half of the surveyed women reported feeling unsafe due to others’ actions in the past three years, with 76% of women aged 18 to 24 feeling unsafe in public spaces because of men’s behavior.
Addressing this national shame requires collective action and not just the burden on women. One of the recommendations from the report is to provide information and early intervention for men and boys to promote positive masculinity culture.
During the press conference of the Inquiry on December 2, Lady Eilish Angiolini KC expressed deep concern over the lack of data on sexually motivated crimes against women in public spaces. The absence of this critical information reflects a failure in policing and a disregard for women’s safety.
The report underscores the urgent need to acknowledge and prioritize women’s experiences and voices, emphasizing the necessity for effective measures to address their concerns. The pervasive fear experienced by women in public spaces highlights the universal challenges faced by women, necessitating a shift towards a safer environment for all.