Sweden launches new strategy to combat violence against women by targeting high-risk perpetrators

Police in Sweden are implementing a new strategy aimed at reducing violence against women by shifting the focus from victims to perpetrators. This proactive approach seeks to prevent crimes before they occur by identifying individuals deemed at high risk for committing violence. Officers are gathering data to target these men, visiting them directly to engage in conversation.

The initiative is being spearheaded by Erika Gyllenswärd, a developer at the National Operations Department (NOA). She emphasized that the method’s core principle is to hold the offender accountable. Engaging with these individuals where they are, listening to them, and encouraging them to seek help and support is considered crucial.

Risk assessments to determine who qualifies as high-risk are based on various factors, including police reports and individuals’ statements during interrogations. For instance, threats of self-harm if a partner attempts to leave are seen as significant indicators.

Factors such as substance abuse, unemployment, and low education levels are also considered risk factors. The engagement with police is voluntary, and in some regions, a significant majority of those approached have chosen to participate in discussions. The police have contacted 33 identified high-risk individuals, with 32 opting to communicate.

The police aim to approach these individuals without casting blame, instead expressing genuine concern for the potential risk they pose of committing severe crimes. Currently, approximately 300 individuals have been identified as high-risk in relation to domestic violence against women.