Men's violence against women and honour-related violence must be combated with the same force as gang crime, the government believes.
Among other things, a "leave programme" is being launched to enable more people to leave destructive relationships.
The government is presenting an action programme against men's violence against women, violence in close relationships, and honour-related violence and oppression.
The programme has 132 points and covers all the government's efforts in this area. Some are already underway, while others are new measures or planned for the future.
Equality Minister Paulina Brandberg (L) says at a press conference that it is an acute social problem.
We want all types of violence, not just physical but also psychological, economic, and sexual violence, to cease, she says.
Same as gang violence
Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer (M) says that violence must be combated with the same force as gang crime.
When it comes to men's violence against women, the penalties do not reflect the seriousness of the crimes, he says.
In what is called the "leave programme", measures are being gathered to facilitate the exit from destructive relationships for those affected by violence.
For many victims of violence, the violence does not stop even after they have left the relationship, says Health Minister Acko Ankarberg Johansson (KD).
A chain of different interventions is needed, something that the National Board of Health and Welfare is currently analysing how to implement. It is also about strengthening the right of victims to remain in their homes and measures against economic violence.
Measures delayed
Many of the proposed measures are still in the investigation phase or are being prepared at the department. For example, questions about more and more intrusive contact bans, stricter penalties for certain honour crimes, and children's contact with a violent parent.
How do you view the fact that many measures are delayed when you yourself say that the problem is acute?
This is not a scorecard. If we can deliver on everything in this programme over the next two and a half years, it will mean an enormous step forward in this area, says Strömmer.
Every year, around 15 women are killed by a man with whom they have or have had a romantic relationship. The police stated in their 2023 annual report that they have not made any significant difference for the women affected by violence.
A government assignment is now being directed to, among others, the police to strengthen cooperation to prevent relationship violence.
We want preventive measures that can prevent violent men from committing crimes at an earlier stage, says Strömmer.
Four areas are listed as particularly prioritised
*A leave programme
The thresholds for seeking help must be low, and there must be a coordinated support chain for those affected by violence.
*Crackdown on honour-related violence
Among other things, stricter legislation, better support and protection for those affected, and increased knowledge.
*Strengthened protection for children and young people
Everything from detecting and preventing violence against children to combating violence in young people's relationships and preventing children from being taken abroad for forced marriage.
*Combating "digital violence"
For example, sexual harassment, stalking, and grooming of children online.
