Shocking Global Statistics on Domestic Violence Involving Children

Statistics on domestic violence involving children were compiled by the US National Crime Survey in 2005. This survey was conducted by the US Department of Justice

The following shocking facts were reported in this study:

• Every year, there are around 1.5 million cases of domestic violence involving children.
• Another million domestic violence cases are unreported each year.
• Every year, about 2,000 - 5,000 children die due to domestic violence

In November 2009, a 10-country study was conducted by the WHO which reported the following facts:

• Women reported physical or sexual violence by spouse or partner – 15% to 71%. In Japan, it was reported at 15% and in Ethiopia, it was reported at 71%.
• Every year, nearly 5,000 women are murdered in the name of honour killings by their own family members.
• Forced marriages and child marriages are common in most parts of Asia, the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa.

Domestic Violence Victims State “No body will believe me.”

In all the countries that were part of the survey, violence by an intimate partner was the most prevalent form of violence against women. Most victims stated that they did not discuss the spousal abuse or domestic violence stating, “No body will believe me.”

Greater public awareness about domestic abuse laws and counseling is necessary but promoting it is difficult because the subject itself is a highly sensitive one.

Victims Must Break the Silence

Reducing incidents of domestic violence and violence against women will be possible only if victims break the silence and report it. Only then, it will be possible for the wheels of law to turn in the right direction. Better still, it is possible to have coordinated action combining religious and cultural organizations, the police, the judiciary and the media.

Each segment can wield their expertise, clout and advantages to establish an effective mechanism to help prevent violence against women and children. Governments across the world must unite to fight violence against women as they do other forms of violence such as terrorism.