Shocking UN Report: 140 Women and Girls Killed Daily on Average Worldwide
A UN report reveals Africa has the highest female homicide rates, while Asia records the lowest. Highlighting global violence against women, the findings are alarming.
A recent report by two United Nations agencies—UN Women and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)—has revealed a grim reality for women worldwide. According to the report, 2023 witnessed an average of 140 women and girls killed daily by their intimate partners or family members.
UN Report Reveals Rising Violence Against Women
The overall number of such killings was over 51,000 worldwide, higher than in the preceding year, both because the crisis was worsening and more countries improved their data collection. Released to coincide with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the findings suggest that nowhere is safe from gender-based violence. Sadly, the report identifies the home as one of the most hazardous places for women, dispelling the idea that home environments are sanctuary settings. This article shares a regional breakdown:
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The highest number of female homicides reported in 2023 came from Africa with approximately 21,700 women and girls killed. The situation was also disturbing in the Americas with a homicide rate of 1.6 per 100,000 women. Next was Oceania at 1.5 per 100,000.
Asia and Europe registered relatively lower rates, at 0.8 and 0.6 per 100,000 women, respectively. However, the lower rates do not erase the gravity of the issue since gender-based violence remains rampant in these areas as well.
Gendered Patterns of Violence
It would also bring to light the stark difference in male and female homicide patterns. Most female victims in Europe and the Americas were intentionally killed by kin within domestic settings. Whereas, males' homicides were more commonly committed outside of family environment. It's projected that about 80 percent of all homicide victims worldwide are male.
The UN agencies underscore the need for urgent and focused action to address gender-based violence globally. Better legal frameworks, increased sensitization, and enhanced protection mechanisms for women and girls are on the agenda. The report reveals that gender-based violence is systemic and that collective efforts must be made to make homes safe for women in countries worldwide.