Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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November 19, 2025 Women
Almost one in three women worldwide has experienced partner violence or sexual assault at least once in their lifetime. This figure has remained virtually unchanged since 2000.
Violence against women remains one of the most serious human rights issues, according to a report published today by the World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners.
Violence rates are declining very slowly
The number of women experiencing partner violence or sexual violence reaches 840 million. In the past 12 months alone, 316 million women—11 percent of all women over 15—experienced physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner. Progress in reducing such cases has been extremely slow: over the past 20 years, this rate has decreased by only 0.2 percent per year.
For the first time, the report includes figures for violence perpetrated by non-partners. According to the study, 263 million women over the age of 15 have experienced such violence. However, experts emphasize that the actual figures are significantly higher, as stigma and fear hinder the detection of such crimes.
"No society can consider itself just, safe, or healthy while half its population lives in fear. Ending violence is not just a matter of politics; it is a matter of dignity, equality, and human rights. Behind every number is a woman or girl whose life has been forever changed," said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
"Women's empowerment is not an option, but a prerequisite for peace, development and health," he added.
Cuts in funding for anti-violence programs
A new report, published ahead of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls, celebrated on November 25, is the largest study yet on intimate partner violence and sexual violence. The document analyzes data from 168 countries for the period 2000–2023.
Despite growing evidence of the effectiveness of violence prevention programs, the report warns that funding for such initiatives is declining. Meanwhile, humanitarian crises, technological change, and socioeconomic inequality are increasing the risks for millions of women and girls. For example, in 2022, only 0.2 percent of all international development assistance was allocated to violence prevention programs, and funding will decline significantly in 2025.
UN Women / K. Rivera
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is observed on November 25. This day marks the launch of the annual "16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence" campaign. Orange is the campaign's official color.
New technologies contribute to the spread of violence
UN Women, an organization that also contributed to the new report, notes that new technologies can contribute to the spread of violence against women.
One global study found that 38 percent of women had personally experienced online violence, and 85 percent of women had witnessed digital violence against others.
However, this is not just about online violence: technology is blurring the boundaries between virtual space and reality, and online violence can spill over into everyday life.
For example, the distribution of deepfake pornographic videos can negatively impact a woman's emotional well-being and career, while online harassment, insults, and the disclosure of a woman's personal information can lead to threats and bullying in real life.
The effects of violence are felt throughout life.
Intimate partner violence and sexual assault can result in serious injuries, unwanted pregnancies, infections, and depression. Sexual, reproductive, and mental health services play a vital role in supporting victims.
Violence exists in every country, but women in the least developed countries, as well as those affected by conflict and regularly experiencing natural disasters, suffer significantly more. For example, in Oceania (excluding Australia and New Zealand), the prevalence rate of partner violence in the past year was 38 percent, more than triple the global average of 11 percent.
The problem can be solved
Today, more countries than ever before are collecting data to inform policy on violence against women, but significant gaps remain – particularly regarding non-partner sexual violence and data on marginalized groups such as indigenous peoples, migrants, women with disabilities, and women living in fragile settings.
The report also highlights successful examples of women's protection programs. For example, Cambodia is implementing a project to update domestic violence legislation, improve the quality and accessibility of services for women, modernize shelters, and introduce digital solutions in schools to prevent violence, particularly among adolescents.
Ecuador, Liberia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Uganda have developed national action plans. Legislative measures adopted in these countries have helped secure domestic financial resources to address the problem of violence.
The report calls on governments to fund proven prevention programmes and survivor-focused health, legal and social services, invest in data collection systems and ensure strict enforcement of laws that empower women and girls.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.