Foreword

• Author: Virginija Langbakk
• Profession: Director European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE)
• Pages: 3-3

Foreword

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Risk assessment and management of intimate partner violence in the EU

Foreword

Police off icers play a leading role in reducing vi-

olence against women by an intimate partner.

They are often the first authority victims turn to

for protection, especially in countries where po-

lice are trusted. Risk assessment and risk man-

agement strategies are two vital steps that en-

sure the immediate safety of victims and prevent

further violence.

Protecting and supporting women who are vic-

tims of intimate partner violence is a priority for

the European Union. The Victims Rights Direc-

tive (2012/29/EU) sets out a framework for risk

assessment by promoting the individual assess-

ment of victims, based on a c ase-by-case ap-

proach. While steps have been taken to improve

institutional responses and strengthen preven-

tion measures against intimate par tner violence,

risk assessment and risk management practices

remain fragmented across EU Member States.

EIGEs guidelines and recommendations offer

a common EU-wide approach to risk assessment

and risk management. To complement these

guidelines, EIGE has also published a report,

which maps risk assessment policy measures, le-

gal provisions and research developments across

the EU. This research builds upon the institutes

previous work supporting Member States in

strengthening their responses to intimate part-

ner violence.

On behalf of EIGE, I would like to thank all the

institutions and expert s who have contributed to

this important research. I firmly believe that our

guide and recommendations will help the EU and

Member States to consolidate their approach,

prevent further harm to victims and hold perpe -

trators accountable. We want victims of intimate

partner violence to continue living their lives,

without fear, in societies that do not tolerate any

kind of gender-based violence.

Virginija Langbakk,

Director

European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE)