An intersectional feminist response to the UK government’s Violence Against Women and Girls 2021–2024 Strategy consultation

Abstract

This article summarises our review of and response to the UK government’s public consultation process on the 2021–2024 Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Strategy. From an intersectional feminist perspective, we identify methodological, ethical and conceptual limitations to the consultation process, highlighting that a heavy focus on criminalisation risks compounding barriers for those seeking support or justice as it does not engage with the lived experiences of those who experience violence. Examples of violence in the public survey released for consultation were underpinned by racist and Islamophobic discourse, constructing Othered groups of people as violent by drawing on sensationalised and racialised forms of violence. In response, we provide recommendations and considerations for strategy reform, and for those working and researching in the VAWG sector.