In France, a recent report highlights the ongoing crisis of domestic violence, revealing that a woman is killed every three days. In 2023, 96 women were victims of femicide, a 19% decrease from the previous year, while overall fatalities dropped to 119. The primary motive for these violent acts is the refusal to separate. Most perpetrators are men aged 30-59, often unemployed, and incidents frequently occur at home, often involving substances. The report also notes a troubling nine infanticides linked to domestic violence.
Alarming Statistics on Domestic Violence in France
Recent findings reveal that in France, a tragic “death occurs every three days” within intimate relationships. As the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women concludes, the Ministry of the Interior has released a new report highlighting the ongoing crisis of domestic violence. While the national figures indicate a decline in the number of women murdered by their partners or ex-partners from 2022 to 2023, the pervasive nature of domestic violence remains a significant concern.
Key Findings from 2023 Report
In 2023, a total of 96 women fell victim to domestic femicide in France, marking a 19% decrease from the previous year. The overall tally of fatalities, including both men and women, reached 119, which is a reduction of 26 compared to 145 in 2022. The report also noted 451 attempted homicides within couples, representing 12% of all attempted homicides, out of a staggering 3,860 cases.
The primary motive behind these violent incidents continues to be the refusal to separate. Women remain disproportionately affected, constituting 81% of the total victims, with 96 recorded in 2023 compared to 118 in 2022. On the other hand, the number of male victims decreased from 27 in 2022 to 23 in the latest report, a 15% decline.
The profile of the perpetrator remains consistent: predominantly male, often in a relationship, typically French nationals aged between 30 and 59, and frequently unemployed. Victims are mostly women aged 30 to 49, many of whom are also not currently employed.
The study reveals that disputes within couples and the refusal to separate are the leading triggers for these violent acts. Most incidents take place in the couple’s home or the victim’s residence, often occurring without premeditation, typically involving a knife or firearm. Alarmingly, in 38% of cases, the presence of substances like alcohol, drugs, or psychotropic medications was noted during the incidents.
The regions with the highest reported incidents include Nord (4 female victims and 2 male), Paris (5 female victims and 1 male), Seine-Maritime (6 female victims), Bouches-du-Rhône (4 female victims and 1 male), Pas-de-Calais (5 female victims), and Val-d’Oise (4 female victims). In overseas territories, Martinique recorded 2 female victims, while New Caledonia had 1 female and 1 male victim.
Moreover, the report indicates that 39% of female victims had previously experienced violence, with 81% of those having reported it to law enforcement. Among those who did report, 90% had filed formal complaints. Notably, four victims were protected by court orders, and one perpetrator was under judicial supervision.
In a grim addition, the study documented nine infanticides occurring in the context of domestic homicide or violence, further underscoring the urgent need for intervention and support for victims of domestic abuse.