‘By every available metric, male violence against women is not decreasing’

Violence against women continues to be an issue across Europe, with no evidence of decline, according to Women’s Aid. 

Young women are particularly vulnerable, with 35% of those aged 18 to 29 reporting experiences of gender-based violence, compared to 24% among women aged 65 to 74.

Speaking on The Pat Kenny Show, Women’s Aid CEO Sarah Benson acknowledged growing public awareness of the issue but said that significant challenges remain.

“By every available metric, the prevalence of male violence against women is not decreasing,” Ms. Benson said. 

“Historically, we’ve lacked comprehensive data on domestic and sexual violence. 

“However, recent reports, including those from Ireland’s Central Statistics Office and the Eurostat Fundamental Rights Agency, are shedding light on the scale of the problem.”

Benson then noted that one in four women in Ireland will experience sexual abuse from a partner. 

While Women’s Aid is still analyzing the data to understand Ireland’s position compared to other European countries, some findings are concerning.

“In the area of intimate partner abuse, Ireland is comparable to other countries, but sexual abuse statistics appear to be higher here,” she said. 

“We’ll be conducting further research to better understand this trend.”

Despite the grim statistics, Ms. Benson said she is optimistic about the growing public dialogue on the issue.

“There has been a fundamental shift in how we discuss violence against women,” she said. 

“For years, this issue was silenced and stigmatised. Over the past decade, efforts around consent education and public awareness have been transformative, encouraging more people to speak out.”

Ms. Benson stressed that while Women’s Aid focuses on the gendered nature of violence, it recognises that abuse can affect everyone, including men and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

“Our helpline directs individuals to resources like the Men’s Development Network Male Advice Line,” she said. 

“It’s crucial to provide support for everyone while recognising that the majority of male violence is directed towards women and other men.”

She insisted  that addressing male violence against women also contributes to reducing violence against men.

For those affected by violence, support is available. Women’s Aid can be reached at 1800 341 900 and the Men’s Development Network Male Advice Line is available at 1800 816 588.

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