Ten Shocking Domestic Violence Statistics from Around the World

Domestic violence is a global crisis that affects millions of individuals, regardless of age, gender, or socioeconomic status. 

Understanding the gravity of this issue through statistics can help raise awareness and drive action. Here are ten shocking statistics on domestic violence from around the world that highlight the urgent need for continued efforts to combat this pervasive problem.

1. Increase During COVID-19 Pandemic

• The United Nations reported a significant increase in domestic violence incidents during the COVID-19 pandemic. In some countries, the number of calls to domestic violence helplines increased by up to 30% during lockdown periods.

2. Global Prevalence Among Women

• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 1 in 3 women worldwide (approximately 736 million) have experienced physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime.

3. Economic Impact of Domestic Violence

• The World Bank estimates the cost of IPV (Intimate Partner Violence) across five countries to be between 1.2 to 3.7% of GDP, equivalent to what most governments spend on primary education.

4. Underreporting of Domestic Violence

• Studies show that less than 40% of women who experience domestic violence seek help of any sort. Among those who do, less than 10% seek help from law enforcement.

5. Domestic Violence and Mental Health

• The American Psychological Association (APA) reports that survivors of domestic violence are at higher risk of developing mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Approximately 50% of female survivors experience depressive disorders.

6. Impact on Children

• The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) states that 275 million children worldwide are exposed to domestic violence in their homes annually, which can lead to long-term emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues.

7. Femicide Rates

• The UN report Global estimates of female intimate partner/family-related homicides in 2022 estimates that 55% of female homicide victims globally are killed by intimate partners or family members. This translates to about 137 women being killed by a family member every day.

8. Economic Abuse

• A survey by the Centre for Domestic Violence Prevention found that 94% of domestic violence survivors also experience economic abuse, where their abusers control their access to financial resources, hindering their ability to leave abusive situations.

9. Healthcare Costs

• According to the WHO, domestic violence survivors incur significantly higher healthcare costs. Women who have experienced intimate partner violence have healthcare costs 42% higher than those who have not.

10. Global Efforts to Combat Domestic Violence

• Global efforts have led to the implementation of laws against domestic violence in 155 countries. However, enforcement remains inconsistent, and cultural barriers often prevent victims from seeking justice.

Stand With Her: Supporting Women in Brazil

In Brazil, the Stand With Her program, led by lawyer Juliana Soria, provides essential legal assistance to women in extremely vulnerable situations. This program operates in Rio Grande do Sul, where domestic violence rates are alarmingly high. Juliana and her team offer free legal aid, psychological counseling, and a safe space for women to rebuild their lives.

Juliana Soria’s Impact: Juliana has dedicated her career to helping women escape abusive relationships. Her work has saved countless lives and empowered women to reclaim their independence and dignity. However, the demand for her services far exceeds the available resources.

How You Can Help

The Stand With Her program relies on donations to continue its critical work. In 2021 alone, 1,341 women died as a result of domestic violence in Brazil, according to the Atlas do Violencia by IPEA. The need for expanded support is urgent.

Your Support Makes a Difference

Understanding domestic violence statistics is just the beginning. To make a real difference, we need your help. By donating to Stand With Her, you are directly supporting women in Brazil who are fighting for their lives and their freedom.

Your contribution can provide legal aid, counseling, and a safe space for women escaping abusive relationships. Together, we can create a world where every woman feels safe and valued.

Donate now and stand with her.

Let’s make a difference, one life at a time.