Why are sexual assault rates still so high in Montreal?

Since January 2020, reported rates of sexual assault in Montreal has ranged from 600 to 1,100 cases. With various commitments of funding from the government to curb sexual violence, why are these rates still so high? Local 514 explores prevention methods, what’s helping, and what needs to continue to be done to reduce reported and unreported rates of sexual violence.

Sexual assaults, (level 1, 2 and 3) are the second highest recorded statistics identified within violations and calls reported to police services in Montreal. These cases range from the lowest recorded at 655 cases per month to the highest recorded at 1,121 per month since January 2020. 

So what has changed in Quebec towards addressing and preventing sexual violence?

The federal and provincial governments have both pledged money over the years to community organizations that support survivors. 

Back in 2017, following the #MeToo movement in Quebec, the provincial government pledged $1M for community groups supporting victims of sexual violence province-wide. The Secretariat for the Status of Women has provided almost $5 million towards Quebec organizations which are committed to raising awareness about sexual violence. While these organizations are typically seen as supporting after an assault has happened, some say organizations that support survivors is a preventative measure.

Despite the emergency funding provided over the last few years, why are reported cases not decreasing?

How many more cases might there be than solely what is reported? Of every 100 incidents of sexual assault, only 6 are reported to the police, identifying that the numbers we have does not accurately reflect how many cases of sexual violence occur in the province or in the country. Police can not stop sexual violence once it has happened, but there are methods that can be put in place to prevent it.

Local 514 investigates what is being done and what can improve the situation to lead to gradual change.