John Swinney Pledges to Eradicate Violence Against Women

First Minister John Swinney pledged to place the eradication of violence against women and girls at the center of his government's ambitions for the coming year. In his programme for government, Swinney committed his personal leadership to protecting at-risk individuals and addressing the economic inequalities that drive gender-based violence.

The commitment follows reports from Police Scotland showing that domestic abuse and sexual crimes have reached their highest levels since 1971, including a 10% increase last year. Scotland has previously introduced significant legal changes, including the 2018 criminalization of coercive control and the 2025 abolition of the not proven verdict.

Despite these legislative steps, campaigners argue that a gap remains between policy and practice. Talat Yaqoob noted that while there is no shortage of inspiring rhetoric and strategy, a lack of priority and resources once policies leave the government's desk has resulted in a lack of tangible change in women's lives.