We have prepared a study on domestic violence in Ukraine based on an analysis of court cases for 2024. The aim is to create a better understanding of who is typically the victim, who commits the violence, and how the justice system responds.
We analyzed 1,778 domestic violence cases heard by trial courts during the year.
Key Findings
The study shows that domestic violence remains a serious and systemic problem in Ukraine.
- Most perpetrators are males. Nearly 97% of cases involve males.
- Most victims are females. They account for over 90% of all victims.
This confirms that domestic violence is often gender-based.
What forms of violence occur most frequently
The most common form is psychological violence—insults, threats, humiliation, and constant emotional pressure. It is documented in approximately 96% of cases.
Such violence may leave no physical marks, but it seriously affects mental health: it causes anxiety, fear, sleep problems, and a sense of danger.
Physical violence is also common. It is often combined with psychological pressure.
Economic abuse is less common, but that doesn’t mean it’s rare. It often involves controlling money, housing, or restricting financial independence.
Abuse after a breakup
Many cases involve former partners or spouses. This means that ending a relationship doesn’t always stop the abuse.
Children also suffer
In some cases, children witnessed the violence, and in others, they were direct victims. This shows that domestic violence affects the entire family, not just one person.
Additional factors
The study also reveals several important trends:
- violence often occurs under the influence of alcohol;
- there are cases of repeated violence;
- some perpetrators have military experience, highlighting the need for psychological support for veterans.
Why Does This Matter
Such research helps us better understand the problem and develop effective solutions:
- to expand psychological and legal support for victims;
- to work on violence prevention;
- to launch programs for perpetrators;
- to raise public awareness.
Domestic violence is not a private family matter, but a social problem that affects people’s safety, health, and well-being. That is why it is important to talk about it openly and work systematically on solutions.
The study was conducted as part of a project implemented by the NGO Insight with technical support from UN Women in Ukraine and funding from the UN Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund (WPHF). The WPHF is a flexible and responsive funding instrument that supports high-quality initiatives to strengthen the capacity of local women to prevent conflicts, respond to crises and emergencies, and seize key peacebuilding opportunities.
This material was prepared with financial support from the United Nations Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund (WPHF), but this does not imply that the views and content expressed herein are officially endorsed or recognized by the United Nations.
