Global Statistics on All Abuse

Global statistics on abuse can be challenging to compile accurately due to underreporting, varying definitions of abuse, cultural differences, and the private nature of many abusive situations. Additionally, data collection methods and reporting mechanisms vary across countries.  That being said, several organizations and agencies work to gather information on abuse worldwide. Here are some general points on different types of abuse:

Domestic Violence:

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 3 women worldwide have experienced physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime.  Men can also be victims of domestic violence, but the prevalence is often lower compared to women and severely underreported.

• USA: The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) estimates that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men. On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the U.S.

 Child Abuse:

UNICEF estimates that millions of children worldwide experience abuse and violence each year.  The prevalence of child sexual abuse is difficult to determine accurately due to underreporting. Many cases of child abuse go unreported due to factors such as fear, shame, cultural norms, and lack of awareness. Poverty, substance abuse, family violence, and lack of education are often associated with an increased risk of child abuse. Rates of child abuse can vary significantly between countries and regions due to cultural, social, and economic factors. It is considered a significant issue worldwide.

• USA: According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), there were approximately 3.5 million referrals for child abuse and neglect in 2019.

 Sexual Violence:

The WHO reports that about 1 in 5 women and 1 in 12 men have experienced sexual abuse as a child globally.  Sexual violence affects individuals of all ages and is prevalent in conflict and post-conflict situations.

• USA: The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) reports that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men have experienced some form of contact sexual violence in their lifetime. The majority of sexual assault cases go unreported.

Individual countries may provide national statistics through their respective protection agencies or similar entities.  Overall, there are ongoing global efforts to combat abuse which involve both prevention and intervention strategies, including education, awareness campaigns, support services for families, and legal measures to protect survivors.