A recent report from France’s Ministry of the Interior reveals that domestic violence has risen by 10% in 2023, with police and gendarmerie services recording 271,000 victims across the country. Among the regions most affected, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA) ranks as the sixth highest for domestic abuse rates, following the Pas-de-Calais, Réunion, Nord, Somme, and Seine-Saint-Denis.
The report highlights that two-thirds of domestic abuse cases in France involve physical violence, with verbal and psychological abuse also contributing substantially to the recorded cases. PACA’s figures reflect these national patterns, with physical violence dominating and the majority of victims being women, who make up 85% of all domestic abuse cases. Men, conversely, are most frequently identified as the perpetrators.
This troubling rise has been partly attributed to increased public awareness, which has encouraged more victims to report incidents. However, barriers remain significant; only 14% of victims reported their abuse to authorities. In PACA, as in other heavily affected regions, the urban centers report higher incidents of domestic violence per capita compared to rural areas.
Alarmingly, 2023 also saw 115 domestic violence-related homicides and 437 attempted homicides across France.
Domestic violence is illegal in France and is punishable by law. The accused risks up to three years in prison and a €45,000 fine, and for aggravating circumstances, up to five years in prison and a €75,000 fine.
Victims of violence by a partner or ex-partner can call the Samu on 15, the fire brigade on 18, or go directly to the hospital, to a doctor or midwife who will have the injuries recorded. Many associations can also help victims, such as Violences femmes info, reachable by phone on 3919 24-hours a day, seven days a week, or the France Victimes network association, available on 116 006.
Victims can also request emergency and temporary accommodation while organising rehousing.
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See also:
New safety and support app for domestic violence victims now available in Monaco
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