A new regional report is raising concerns about how domestic homicides are understood and prevented in Atlantic Canada.
The Council of Atlantic Premiers explained the study offers the most detailed look in a decade at how these deaths happen and how governments can respond more effectively.
The Council of Atlantic Premiers (CAP) said the report — Preventing Domestic Homicides in Atlantic Canada: Looking Back to See Our Way Forward — reviews cases from 2012 to 2022.
CAP said the study highlights gaps in data collection, differences in investigative practices and challenges faced by people experiencing gender‑based violence.
The report was commissioned by the Atlantic Domestic Homicide Review Network, which CAP created in 2020 to bring together officials from all four provinces.
CAP said the network’s role is to share expertise, review cases and recommend system changes aimed at preventing future deaths.
New Brunswick Premier and CAP Chair Susan Holt said domestic homicides have a deep impact on families and communities.
“The loss of life due to domestic homicide is devastating for families and communities,” she said.
Holt said regional collaboration helps governments better understand the factors that lead to these tragedies and take meaningful action to prevent them.
CAP said the research was conducted by the Centre for the Study of Social and Legal Responses to Violence at the University of Guelph, led by Dr. Myrna Dawson.
Dawson said the 10‑year review shows the importance of consistent data and coordinated responses across provinces.
“Better information helps us see the patterns behind these deaths and identify where systems can be strengthened,” she said.
According to CAP, the report outlines 14 recommendations to strengthen data systems, improve investigative processes and enhance services for people affected by gender‑based violence.
CAP said the findings will guide the next phase of work for the Atlantic Domestic Homicide Review Network, including improving case‑review approaches, expanding collaboration with community partners and increasing transparency in domestic homicide reviews.
Each Atlantic province will now use the findings to shape its next steps. CAP added that jurisdictions are expected to return to the premiers in fall 2026 with a workplan outlining the next phase of the network’s work.
The release noted that the report contains information that may be difficult for families of victims and for people experiencing gender‑based violence.
CAP directs anyone seeking support to the online federal resources.
