The report indicates a significant global issue with femicide, highlighting that 60% of all femicides in 2023 were committed by intimate partners or family members.
The data shows a concerning trend where domestic violence remains a leading cause of death for women and girls, particularly in regions like Africa.
The call for stronger laws and better data collection reflects a growing recognition of the need for systemic change to address gender-based violence.
If current trends continue, the number of femicides may rise unless significant measures are taken to address the root causes of gender-based violence.
Increased awareness and activism may lead to stronger legislative frameworks and improved support systems for victims of domestic violence.
The ongoing campaigns and reports may encourage more countries to report and address femicide, potentially leading to a decline in rates over time.
UN Report Highlights Alarming Rates of Femicide Worldwide
A recent United Nations report reveals that in 2023, approximately 85,100 women and girls were murdered globally, with around 51,000 of these deaths attributed to their partners or family members. This shocking statistic translates to a femicide occurring every 10 minutes, underscoring the urgent need for action against gender-based violence. The report, released on the 25th anniversary of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, emphasizes that the home remains the most dangerous place for women and girls.
Regional Disparities in Femicide Rates
The report indicates that Africa has the highest rate of femicides by intimate partners or family members, with 2.9 victims per 100,000 female inhabitants. The Americas and Oceania follow with rates of 1.6 and 1.5 per 100,000, respectively. In contrast, Asia and Europe report significantly lower rates at 0.8 and 0.6 per 100,000 inhabitants. The majority of these murders occur within domestic settings, with 64% of female homicides in Europe and 58% in the Americas committed by intimate partners.
Calls for Action and Awareness
Sima Bahous, Executive Director of UN Women, stated that violence against women is preventable and called for stronger laws, improved data collection, and increased funding for women's rights organizations. The report also highlights the importance of a robust criminal justice system to hold perpetrators accountable and support survivors. In conjunction with the report's release, UN Women has launched the “16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence” campaign, aimed at revitalizing commitments to combat gender-based violence and demanding accountability from decision-makers.
