A new review has exposed pervasive sexism and misogyny within the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), raising urgent concerns about how the force responds to domestic violence and violence against women and girls (VAWG). The report, commissioned by Chief Constable Jon Boutcher and conducted by Rachel Langdale KC, comes amid renewed alarm over the North of Ireland’s worsening femicide rate and several recent high‑profile killings of women.

Langdale issued 42 recommendations aimed at improving victim safeguarding, strengthening partnerships with women‑focused community organisations, and fixing what she described as a flawed misconduct process. Her findings align with a recent Police Ombudsman report showing that predatory behaviour now accounts for 30% of the most serious misconduct cases involving PSNI officers, all of which targeted vulnerable women. Both reports highlight significant gaps in accountability, data collection, and timely disciplinary action.

For those invested in advancing women’s representation and safety within the security sector, the findings signal a critical need for cultural change. Boutcher has accepted all recommendations, committing to reforms that prioritise psychological safety, early referral to support services, and faster action against officers who abuse their authority. However, sustained oversight and deeper involvement from specialist women’s organisations will be essential to driving long‑term, meaningful improvement.

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