In the wake of the feminist movement in the 1970s, the issue of domestic violence has been a focal point of advocacy and legal reform. This is particularly evident in countries like Ghana and Nigeria, where significant strides have been made in enacting laws and establishing specialized units within the police force to address domestic violence.
Despite the laudable efforts to combat domestic violence, our recent study on police interventions in domestic violence cases in Ghana and Nigeria has revealed a concerning factor that hinders the effectiveness of these initiatives: the influence of a masculinized police culture.
The findings of our research shed light on the pervasive nature of police masculinity within the training, attitudes, and practices of law enforcement officers tasked with handling domestic violence cases. The emphasis on traits such as force, aggression, dominance, and strength as ideal qualities for police officers has created a challenging environment for victims seeking assistance.
One of the key observations from our study is the lack of gender sensitivity and effective training on handling domestic violence within the police curriculum. While efforts have been made to provide some training on domestic violence, it is often insufficient and offered by external organizations rather than being an integral part of police training.
Furthermore, the perception of domestic violence as a crime involving only female victims has resulted in a marginalization of male victims seeking assistance from the police. This narrow view not only disregards the experiences of male victims but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes about gender and victimhood.
In addition to the lack of adequate training, our research uncovered instances of hostility, blame, and insensitivity exhibited by some police officers towards domestic violence victims. This hostile environment not only deters victims from seeking further assistance but also exacerbates their trauma, ultimately hindering their access to justice.
Moreover, the under-resourcing of domestic violence units within the police force, coupled with a lack of psychosocial support for victims, further compounds the challenges faced by those seeking assistance.
In light of these findings, it is imperative that both the Ghanaian and Nigerian police undertake significant reforms to address the systemic issues identified in our study. Restructuring police training to incorporate gender sensitivity and effective handling of domestic violence should be a priority. This includes making comprehensive training on domestic violence a mandatory component of police education, rather than an optional or external provision.
By prioritizing the development of empathetic, humane, and supportive policing practices, law enforcement agencies can work towards dismantling the barriers created by a masculinized police culture and better serve all victims of domestic violence.
Ultimately, addressing the influence of police masculinity on domestic violence interventions is crucial in ensuring that the rights of all individuals, regardless of gender, are upheld and that victims receive the support and justice they deserve.
-By Tetteh Belinda | Ghana Crimes
