Female Homicide Victims in Erbil City: A Forensic and Sociological Perspective
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15218/crewh.2024.04Keywords:
Female homicide, Erbil City, socio-cultural factors, intimate partner violence, firearm regulation, public health policy, forensic analysis.Abstract
Background: Female homicides represent a severe social and public health issue, driven by complex socio-cultural, economic, and relational factors. In Iraq, particularly in Erbil, there has been limited research addressing patterns, risk factors, and characteristics of female homicides, leaving gaps in understanding this critical issue.
Objective: This study aims to analyze demographic, geographic, and forensic aspects of female homicides in Erbil City from 2018 to 2022 to identify high-risk groups, influential socio-cultural factors, and potential prevention strategies.
Methodology: A retrospective analytical study was conducted, examining 1,063 female homicide cases documented in Erbil City over a five-year period. Data were obtained from forensic, hospital, and law enforcement records and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics to explore victim demographics, geographic distribution, homicide methods, and relationships with perpetrators.
Results: Findings show that young adult women aged 21-30 are the most vulnerable group, comprising 29% of cases. Geographically, Erbil’s central urban areas recorded the highest homicide rates, possibly due to population density, economic pressures, and social tensions. Burning (42.3%) and firearm use (28.7%) were the most common methods, indicating socio-cultural influences and accessibility to weapons. A majority of homicides (60%) occurred within private residences, with intimate partners and family members frequently implicated as perpetrators.
Conclusion: The study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions, such as domestic violence prevention programs, firearm regulation, and culturally adapted public health policies. By identifying key risk factors and socio-cultural contributors, these findings support the development of evidence-based strategies to reduce female homicides in Erbil and comparable sociocultural settings.
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