In Europe, femicide—the gender-based killing of women by men—remains a deeply concerning issue, though the rates and patterns vary across countries. While the United Kingdom reports that a woman is killed by a man every three days, European statistics present a broader and more complex picture.OBC Transeuropa+2OBC Transeuropa+2
🇪🇺 European Overview
In 2023, 749 women were killed by someone known to them in 17 EU reporting countries. This figure reflects a relatively stable rate over the past decade, despite annual fluctuations . However, it’s important to note that data collection methods and definitions of femicide can vary significantly between countries, which may affect the accuracy and comparability of these statistics.European Parliament
🇩🇪 Germany
Germany reports that, on average, a woman is killed every day, often by a partner or ex-partner. This highlights the pervasive and dangerous reality of sexism and gender-based violence in the country .The Guardian
🇮🇹 Italy
In 2023, Italy recorded 120 femicides, with 86% of the victims killed by a partner or former partner. This statistic underscores the critical need for targeted interventions and support systems for women at risk .The Guardian+9Wikipedia+9AP News+9
🇫🇷 France
France has seen a decrease in femicides in recent years, with 137 women killed by their partners or ex-partners in 2019.While this represents a decline, the numbers remain alarmingly high, indicating that significant challenges persist in addressing gender-based violence .Wikipedia
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
As previously mentioned, the UK reports that a woman is killed by a man every three days. This statistic has drawn attention to the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to prevent femicide and support survivors of domestic violence .
🇱🇻 Latvia
Latvia has the highest proportion of women among homicide victims in the EU, with women constituting 60% of all homicide victims. This statistic highlights the disproportionate impact of violence on women in the country.Wikipedia+1
🇵🇹 Portugal
In Portugal, 86% of women who are killed are murdered by a partner, the highest percentage in the European Union.This statistic emphasizes the critical need for effective interventions and support systems to address intimate partner violence .Wikipedia+1
🇬🇷 Greece
In 2022, Greece experienced a 4.3% increase in femicides compared to the previous year, with 24 victims. This indicates a concerning upward trend that necessitates immediate attention and action .European Data Journalism
🧠 Broader Implications
These statistics reveal a troubling pattern of violence against women across Europe, often perpetrated by intimate partners or family members. While some countries have seen decreases in femicide rates, the overall picture remains dire. The persistence of this issue underscores the need for comprehensive strategies that include improved data collection, public awareness campaigns, and robust support systems for survivors. It is imperative that governments and societies take decisive action to combat femicide and protect women from gender-based violence.UN Regional Info Centre+2OBC Transeuropa+2
Recent Reports on Femicide in Europe
An average of 140 women and girls were killed by a partner or relative per day in 2023, the UN says
