Full Breakdown
Addressing Violence Against Women and Girls in Football
3/24/2026, 5:25:31 PM
Increased Awareness and Police Initiatives
In the lead-up to the recent men's Manchester derby, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) collaborated with partner organizations to raise awareness about Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and enhance the protection of vulnerable individuals. The United Nations defines VAWG as acts of gender-based violence that inflict physical, sexual, or psychological harm. This encompasses serious crimes such as domestic abuse and sexual violence, as well as more subtle forms of misogyny and sexist remarks that perpetuate gender inequality.
Ch Supt Colette Rose, head of specialist operations at GMP, emphasized the societal nature of VAWG, stating, "It's high on the national agenda. It leaks into every aspect of our society, and that includes sports and football." She noted that football often features a predominantly male fanbase, and engaging men in discussions about behaviors that may intimidate women is crucial for broader societal change.
Rising Incidents and Reporting
Recent figures from GMP indicate a rise in reported incidents of VAWG at football matches, increasing from 18 in the 2023-24 season to 28 in the previous season. This trend is expected to continue. Organizations like Her Game Too report receiving at least one incident report every matchday. However, Rose suggests that the increase in reports does not necessarily indicate a worsening situation; rather, it reflects a growing societal recognition of unacceptable behaviors. "I think what is actually happening is we're calling it out," she stated, highlighting the importance of reporting and community engagement in addressing these issues.
Personal Experiences and Challenges
Rose shared a personal experience from a match in Germany, where she felt vulnerable and targeted due to her gender. "I was followed around the stadium... It shook me to the core. I didn't realize I could ever feel that vulnerable in a crowd as a police officer," she recounted. This incident underscores the challenges faced by women, even those in positions of authority, within male-dominated environments like football.
Criticism and Opposition
While there is a concerted effort to address VAWG, some critics argue that the measures taken may not be sufficient to effect real change in the culture surrounding football. The ongoing dialogue about misogyny in sports highlights the need for continued vigilance and proactive strategies to combat these issues effectively.
Verbatim Quotes
- "I think VAWG is a societal problem." — Ch Supt Colette Rose, Greater Manchester Police
- "The language used was very misogynistic and the person perpetrating it was using my vulnerabilities to make me feel the way I did." — Anonymous
The initiatives by GMP and partner organizations reflect a growing commitment to tackling VAWG in football, aiming to foster a safer environment for all fans.
