Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O'Neill stated that she and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, DUP MLA for Lagan Valley, receive questions viewed through a gendered perspective. The two serve together in the Executive Office.

O'Neill noted an increase in women entering politics. She said female politicians face online abuse that includes remarks on their looks and threats of physical or sexual violence.

O'Neill reported that female MLAs, some of whom are young mothers, have been confronted aggressively by people on streets.

In the Northern Ireland Assembly chamber, O'Neill observed negative comments and aggressive tones from certain male members.

O'Neill said scrutiny of her work with Little-Pengelly should center on policy decisions and results, not personal interactions. She noted they hold different backgrounds and constitutional positions.

Sinn Fein has 27 seats in the Northern Ireland Assembly, with 16 held by women.

Women's Aid stated that 28 women have been killed by men in Northern Ireland since 2020. Legal proceedings continue in the cases of 21-year-old Chloe Mitchell and 32-year-old Natalie McNally, who was 15 weeks pregnant at the time of her death.

The Executive launched its Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy in 2024. The strategy includes prevention efforts in schools, protections and support for victims, and coordinated action by multiple agencies against gender-based violence. O'Neill committed to prioritizing the strategy after devolution resumed and said she has fulfilled that pledge.