In order to make progress against intimate partner violence, some old attitudes and beliefs need to change.

That’s according to an expert panelist who has been studying the issue.

In the first six months of 2020, 78 women and girls were killed by violence in Canada.

Jenny Wright is with the Femicide Observatory.

She says violence against women is prevalent, but there are many factors as to why it may not be reported.

Many have the “old notion,” she says, that whatever happens inside someone’s own home is their own business, and we don’t want to intrude. Some others may even believe that the woman might deserve such treatment.

Wright states fear of more violence could also prevent some women from reporting incidents.

She says women leaving a violent relationship are most at risk, and it’s important not to simply be a bystander to violence and abuse.

She believes bystander intervention needs to be taught in schools and organizations, allowing people to reach out when they see someone who needs help.