Global – More than 50,000 women and girls were intentionally killed by intimate partners or family members worldwide in 2024, according to a new United Nations report. This averages to one woman every 10 minutes, or 137 per day, highlighting the ongoing global crisis of femicide.

The report, released by UN Women and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to mark the 2025 International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, warned that femicide remains a persistent and preventable problem with “no sign of real progress.”

Key Statistics

• Globally, 83,000 women and girls were intentionally killed in 2024.
• 60% of these deaths were perpetrated by intimate partners or relatives.
• By comparison, only 11% of male homicide victims were killed by family members or partners.
• Experts note that actual numbers may be higher, due to underreporting, poor data collection, and outdated legal definitions.

Drivers and Risk Factors

The report highlights that factors such as economic instability, conflict, forced displacement, and lack of safe housing increase the risks faced by women trapped in abusive situations.

“The home remains a dangerous and sometimes lethal place for too many women and girls around the world,” said John Brandolino, acting executive director of UNODC.

Sarah Hendriks, director of UN Women’s policy division, emphasized that digital abuse can escalate into lethal violence, noting that femicide often represents the extreme end of a “continuum of violence” that begins with harassment or controlling behaviour.

Regional Trends

• Africa recorded the highest regional rate of femicide by intimate partners or family members.
• Followed by the Americas, Oceania, Asia, and Europe.

UN Women stressed the need for coordinated prevention efforts involving schools, workplaces, public services, and local communities to detect early signs of violence.

Calls for Action

The UN urged governments to:

• Increase funding for shelters, legal aid, and specialist support services.
• Strengthen criminal justice responses and prevention programs.
• Expand public awareness campaigns during initiatives like the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

“Early intervention and comprehensive support can save lives,” Hendriks said.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the urgent global need to tackle domestic violence and femicide, improve protection mechanisms, and provide safe environments for women and girls worldwide.