Understanding and addressing violence against women : intimate partner violence
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World Health Organization
Abstract
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12 p.
This information sheet summarizes current evidence on intimate partner violence (IPV) against women, describing its forms, prevalence, determinants, health consequences and approaches to prevention and response. It explains IPV as a widespread violation of women’s human rights and a major public health problem affecting women across all socioeconomic and cultural settings. Drawing on findings from the WHO multi-country study and other international evidence, the publication examines the magnitude of IPV, factors influencing women’s decisions to remain in or leave abusive relationships, and the individual, relationship, community and societal factors associated with both perpetration and victimization. It also outlines the physical, mental, sexual and reproductive health consequences of IPV, including effects during pregnancy, impacts on children and links with homicide, suicide and HIV. The publication reviews evidence on promising interventions to prevent and respond to IPV, emphasizing the need for comprehensive, multisectoral and long-term strategies. It highlights legal and policy reform, social and economic empowerment of women, community mobilization, behaviour change communication, school-based programmes, engagement of men and boys, early intervention for at-risk families, and integrated services for survivors. It also identifies the importance of strengthening research, improving service systems, raising awareness and expanding the evidence base to support effective policies and programmes.
This information sheet summarizes current evidence on intimate partner violence (IPV) against women, describing its forms, prevalence, determinants, health consequences and approaches to prevention and response. It explains IPV as a widespread violation of women’s human rights and a major public health problem affecting women across all socioeconomic and cultural settings. Drawing on findings from the WHO multi-country study and other international evidence, the publication examines the magnitude of IPV, factors influencing women’s decisions to remain in or leave abusive relationships, and the individual, relationship, community and societal factors associated with both perpetration and victimization. It also outlines the physical, mental, sexual and reproductive health consequences of IPV, including effects during pregnancy, impacts on children and links with homicide, suicide and HIV. The publication reviews evidence on promising interventions to prevent and respond to IPV, emphasizing the need for comprehensive, multisectoral and long-term strategies. It highlights legal and policy reform, social and economic empowerment of women, community mobilization, behaviour change communication, school-based programmes, engagement of men and boys, early intervention for at-risk families, and integrated services for survivors. It also identifies the importance of strengthening research, improving service systems, raising awareness and expanding the evidence base to support effective policies and programmes.