Alarming Femicide Statistics for 2023
A report by the United Nations highlights the grim reality of femicide, revealing that a woman was killed by a partner or relative every 10 minutes in 2023. According to the study by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and UN Women, nearly 85,000 women and girls were murdered worldwide last year.
Home: The Most Dangerous Place for Women
The report found that 60% of these victims—over 51,000 women—were killed by intimate partners or family members. This translates to 140 women losing their lives daily to those closest to them. The home, often considered a safe space, emerged as the most dangerous place for women and girls.
Comparative Homicide Rates for Men and Women
While men constitute 80% of global homicide victims, they are more often killed by strangers. In contrast, women are disproportionately killed by people they trust.
Regional Disparities in Femicide
Africa bore the highest burden in 2023, with 21,700 women killed by close acquaintances. Europe reported the lowest absolute numbers, with 2,300 cases, followed by Asia.
Root Causes and Solutions
Despite preventive efforts, femicide remains alarmingly high due to deep-rooted gender inequality and damaging societal stereotypes. Ghada Waly, Executive Director of UNODC, called for dismantling power imbalances and harmful norms that perpetuate violence against women.
Preventive Measures and Global Action
The report emphasized the importance of robust legislation, government accountability, and funding for women’s rights organizations. Improved data collection and cultivating a zero-tolerance culture toward violence against women were also highlighted as critical steps.
Call for Collective Action
Sima Bahous, Executive Director of UN Women, stressed the need for stronger measures like restraining orders to prevent violence. She urged global stakeholders to prioritize efforts in eliminating violence against women.
A Timely Release
The report, based on data from 107 countries and territories, was published to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, underscoring the urgency of addressing this global issue.
