Femicide crisis: One woman killed every 10 minutes, UN report reveals

Femicide remains a pervasive threat worldwide, according to new research by UN Women and the UNODC. Released on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the report reveals the persistent threat faced by women and girls worldwide, often at the hands of those closest to them, Kazinform News Agency correspondent reports.

The urgency to address this global problem is highlighted in the report Femicides in 2023: Global Estimates of Partner/Family Member Femicides. An estimated 85,000 women and girls were intentionally killed in 2023. Of these, 51,101 (60%) were killed by an intimate partner or family member. This means that, tragically, every 10 minutes, a woman or girl is killed by a loved one.

Africa showed the highest number of intimate relationship and family-related femicides, followed by the Americas and Oceania. While other regions are dominated by family members, the majority of victims in Europe and the Americas were killed by intimate partners.

“Violence against women and girls is not inevitable—it is preventable. We need robust legislation, improved data collection, greater government accountability, a zero-tolerance culture, and increased funding for women’s rights organizations and institutional bodies. As we approach the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in 2025, it is time for world leaders to UNiTE and act with urgency, recommit and channel the resources needed to end this crisis once and for all", highlighted UN Women Executive Director, Sima Bahous.

“The new femicide report highlights the urgent need for strong criminal justice systems that hold perpetrators accountable while ensuring adequate support for survivors, including access to safe and transparent reporting mechanisms,” said Ghada Waly, Executive Director of UNODC. “At the same time, we must confront and dismantle the gender biases, power imbalances, and harmful norms that perpetuate violence against women. As this year’s 16 Days of Activism Campaign begins, we must act now to protect women’s lives.”

2024 also marks the 25th anniversary of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and launches the 16 Days of Activism campaign, with a focus on investment, accountability, and action to protect women and girls.