Members of the Canadian Parliament are urging the government to make coercive control a criminal offense in efforts to address intimate partner violence. The House committee on the status of women has put forward 16 recommendations, emphasizing the need to support the criminalization of coercive control. Conservative MP Marilyn Gladu, the committee’s chair, expressed strong support for this measure during a recent news conference, highlighting the bipartisan backing for this initiative.
Acknowledging coercive and controlling behavior as a form of family violence, the report highlighted that several countries, such as England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and Australia, have already implemented laws criminalizing such behavior. Although a previous private member’s bill aimed at criminalizing coercive control made progress in the House and Senate before Parliament was dissolved, the current report underscores the importance of accompanying legislation with comprehensive training for law enforcement and the justice system, public awareness campaigns, and enhanced support services for victims.
While witnesses advocated for criminalizing coercive control, concerns were raised regarding the practical challenges that may arise, including the complexities in securing convictions due to the subtle and prolonged nature of this type of abuse. The committee emphasized that criminalization alone would not be a quick fix for the widespread issue of domestic abuse. Unlike some other countries that have specified behaviors constituting coercive control, the committee opted not to recommend a detailed list, citing the evolving nature of abusive tactics.
In light of the difficulties victims face in identifying and seeking help for coercive control incidents, the committee underscored the need for a multifaceted approach that goes beyond legislation. The ultimate goal is to ensure that any criminalization efforts are effectively implemented and supported by adequate resources to combat intimate partner violence effectively.
