Canada Criminalizes Femicide and Coercive Control: NFSC Inc. Calls for Systemic Implementation — National Family and Survivors Circle Inc.

Event summary

Canada's Criminal Code now recognizes femicide as first-degree murder and criminalizes coercive control in intimate relationships.
Canada ratified the Inter-American Convention on the Prevention, Punishment, and Eradication of Violence Against Women (Belém do Pará Convention).
NFSC Inc. emphasizes that legal reforms must be accompanied by sustained investments in prevention and coordinated action across all levels of government.
The organization stresses the need for consistent implementation of these changes to ensure safety for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people.

The big picture

The criminalization of femicide and coercive control in Canada marks a significant step in addressing gender-based violence, particularly for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people. This reform aligns with broader global efforts to combat systemic inequities and colonialism, highlighting the urgency of sustained action to prevent violence against women. The success of these reforms will depend on consistent implementation, accountability, and sustained commitment across the justice system and all levels of government.

What we're watching

Implementation Risk: Whether Canada's justice system can consistently apply these reforms to improve safety for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people.
Systemic Change: The pace at which sustained investments in prevention and coordinated action across all levels of government will be realized.
Accountability Measures: How the full implementation of the 231 Calls for Justice will be monitored and enforced to ensure measurable outcomes.