Research on the use of reviews following homicide in domestic settings
Domestic violence is a serious issue in the Netherlands, with fatal consequences each year. The impact extends beyond the victims themselves, also affecting bereaved relatives and society as a whole. However, there is currently no structured method to systematically evaluate fatal cases and learn from them.
This research, conducted by Laura van Gunst, MSc, Dr Jolien van Breen, Prof.dr Marieke Liem, and Prof.dr Frans Koenraadt on behalf of the WODC, focuses on investigating this gap.
In countries such as England, Portugal, and New Zealand, fatal cases of domestic violence are examined through a so-called HG-review (Domestic Violence Review). In this process, a committee retrospectively analyses the circumstances of the incident to determine whether warning signs were missed and whether a more effective intervention could have taken place. This process can provide valuable insights for the organisations involved. Leiden University has examined whether a similar system could be introduced in the Netherlands, allowing the country to also learn from previous incidents and improve the prevention of domestic violence.
Conditions and challenges for implementation
The study shows that introducing HG-reviews in the Netherlands could be a valuable addition to existing initiatives aimed at better understanding and addressing fatal domestic violence. However, implementation requires a careful and step-by-step approach, involving all relevant stakeholders. Additionally, the right conditions must be established, such as legal authority, sufficient financial resources, and a climate of trust among those involved.
In the Netherlands, the positioning of HG-reviews as a learning tool is emphasised. Unlike inspection investigations, which focus on accountability, HG-reviews should allow for reflection and collaboration in a confidential setting. The researchers point out that a safe environment is necessary so that agencies can collectively reflect without immediately having to justify their actions.
According to experts and international examples, a model with national coordination and local expertise is considered the most promising for the practical implementation of the reviews. In some countries, a monitoring system is used in which all fatal cases of domestic violence are recorded. This contributes to recognising trends and improving interventions and support services.
International experience and the added value of HG-Reviews
International experts unanimously acknowledge the value of HG-reviews. For the agencies involved, they can provide valuable lessons, help identify patterns in domestic violence, and improve the effectiveness of interventions. Additionally, reviews can offer bereaved relatives recognition and insight into the circumstances surrounding their loved one's death.
However, international experiences show that recommendations from HG-reviews are not always followed up. Their effectiveness strongly depends on clear objectives and structural follow-up. While HG-reviews can contribute to a better-functioning system and closer cooperation between agencies, there is no scientific basis proving that they are effective in actually preventing future homicides.
Read the full report for a detailed overview of the findings and recommendations.
Symposium: Research on the use of reviews following homicide in domestic settings
On 31 January 2025, the research findings will be presented during a symposium at Leiden University. International experts will share their experiences with HG reviews, followed by a Dutch panel discussing the implications for implementation and public support in the Netherlands. The symposium provides policymakers, researchers, and professionals with the opportunity to collaborate on developing a more effective approach to fatal domestic violence. Read more
Main language: Dutch