Investigator: "We do not do enough"

The deadly violence that occurs in close relationships has provoked great reactions among Swedes.

In the last three weeks, five murders of women have received attention in Sweden and new promises of action have been presented.

But according to Camilla Rudholm, whose sister was beaten to death by her former partner, the debates have only continued without change.

- The politicians promised change, but then it happens again.

Five women in a few weeks.

It is terrible, it must not continue, she tells SVT.

Murdered in connection with separation

After a detailed examination of a total of one hundred cases where women have been killed by men with whom they previously had a relationship, it has been possible to map a common denominator.

A clear majority of the women were murdered in connection with separation.

- There are many reasons behind every murder.

Separation is often a crisis, which means that it often happens that problems with a perpetrator can escalate, Mannheimer says in SVT's Agenda.

The latest compilation shows that about half of the perpetrators suffer from mental health problems.

An equal proportion have problems with substance abuse, while the majority of men turn out to be unemployed.

- Intensive efforts are required.

We need to look after and address mental illness, substance abuse problems and social isolation.

We often go in with a mental treatment but miss the other parts.

Violence of honor recurring cause

A recurring cause of the homicides is honor killings.

The most important thing in such a problem is to identify any dangers.

Thoughts about, for example, family reunification can be an example.

Newly arrived women who come into contact with their partner are also a risk factor.

- There, the system is based on having a partner in Sweden who has the social contacts that help one into the country.

If the person is a perpetrator or dangerous, it can be difficult to seek help, says Mannheimer.

"Ask if you see anyone being exposed"

As a neighbor or relative, it can be difficult to act.

If you see that someone is getting hurt or exposed, it is important to address the issue.

- In the pandemic times, you become even more dependent on your loved ones.

However, it is important that you dare and know that there is help out there to get.