Abstract: The aim of the thesis is to contribute to a better understanding of femicide as a specific form of violence against women and to encourage discussion on improving legislation, preventive policies, and institutional responses to violence against women in Slovenia. This master's thesis addresses femicide as the most severe form of violence against women and places it within a broader social, legal, and social work context. Femicide is not understood merely as an individual criminal act, but as a consequence of long-standing gender inequalities, patriarchal social norms, and various forms of violence against women, particularly intimate partner violence. Special attention is devoted to the adequacy of Slovenian legislation in recognizing and addressing femicide, as well as to the possibilities for improving the protection of victims of violence.
The theoretical part of the thesis presents the development of the concept of femicide, different definitions of femicide in feminist, sociological, and legal literature, and key risk factors associated with femicide. The thesis also examines the social, psychological, and legal consequences of violence against women, as well as the connection between intimate partner violence and femicide. Particular emphasis is placed on the international legal framework, especially the Istanbul Convention, and on a comparative analysis of legislation in selected countries such as Mexico, Argentina, Spain, and Croatia, which address femicide in different ways.
The thesis further analyzes Slovenian legislation concerning the prevention of domestic violence, victim protection, and the role of institutions in addressing violence, risk assessment, advocacy, coordination of assistance, and interdisciplinary cooperation between social work centers, the police, the judiciary, healthcare institutions, and non-governmental organizations. The prevention of femicide is not solely the responsibility of criminal law or any single institution; rather, it requires a long-term and comprehensive approach that encompasses prevention, early identification of violence, professional support for victims, adequately trained professionals, and a social environment that consistently recognizes violence against women as an unacceptable violation of human rights.
The research part of the thesis is based on a combined methodological approach. The methods used include a comparative analysis of legislation, semi-structured interviews, and a survey questionnaire. The semi-structured interviews provide a deeper understanding of the perspectives of professionals working in social work, law, and organizations supporting victims of violence. The survey questionnaire provides broader insight into perceptions of femicide, victim protection, and the need for more effective protective measures and legislative solutions in the Republic of Slovenia.
The findings of this master's thesis emphasize that the effective prevention of femicide requires a comprehensive approach that integrates appropriate legislation, the timely identification of risk factors, interdisciplinary cooperation, and accessible, professionally grounded psychosocial support for victims of violence.
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