8 Facts About Violence Against Women

It’s More Common Than You Think

According to the World Health Organization, about 1 in 3 women worldwide (30%) have been subjected to physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner or non-partner. This staggering statistic reveals just how widespread this issue is, affecting women from all backgrounds and regions. These numbers show that violence against women isn’t something that happens in isolation; it’s a global epidemic that requires active anti-violence work and education.

Intimate Male Partner Violence Is the Most Prevalent Form

Most violence against women is committed by an intimate partner, with the partner nearly always being a man. Nearly 27% of women aged 15-49 who have been in a relationship report experiencing physical or sexual violence from their partner. This type of violence is often hidden, making it harder for women to seek help.

Violence Has Severe Health Consequences

The effects of violence go way beyond physical harm. Women who experience violence are at increased risk for mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Violence also impacts sexual and reproductive health, contributing to unintended pregnancies, STIs (including HIV), and pregnancy complications. This is why access to healthcare and support can make a big difference in recovery.

Violence Can Lead to Fatal Outcomes

In some cases, violence against women escalates to murder. Globally, as many as 38% of all murders of women are committed by intimate partners. This statistic highlights the dangerous reality that some women face daily, especially if they can’t leave their abusive situation.

Certain Factors Increase Risk for Both Perpetration and Victimization

Factors such as lower education levels, harmful use of alcohol, witnessing family violence, firearms in the home, and gender norms that favor men all increase the likelihood of intimate partner violence and sexual violence. These factors don’t cause violence but contribute to environments where violence is more likely to occur.

Gender Inequality Is a Root Cause

At its core, violence against women is driven by gender inequality and discriminatory social norms. Societies that privilege men over women create conditions where violence is more acceptable, and women’s safety is compromised. This is why promoting gender equality and challenging harmful norms are essential for lasting change and reducing violence.

The Social and Economic Costs Are Enormous

Violence affects women’s ability to work, participate in community activities, and care for themselves and their families. The economic impact includes lost wages, healthcare costs, and reduced productivity, which can have ripple effects throughout society. The cost of violence isn’t just carried by victims—it also affects entire families, communities, and economies, making it everyone’s issue to solve.

Prevention Is Possible

Violence against women can be prevented. Initiatives such as WHO and UN Women’s RESPECT framework outline strategies for preventing violence, including empowering women, promoting healthy relationships, and transforming harmful social norms. This framework encourages interventions at every level, from individuals and families to entire communities. This includes an increased focus on educating young boys and breaking down data to use more accountable forms of language. For example, instead of saying 376,038 women were victims of rape or sexual assault in 2023, it’s important to underscore that over 300,000 men raped women in 2023.

Violence against women isn’t inevitable—it’s preventable. By understanding the facts and taking action, we can help create a world where women feel safe, respected, and supported.