The World Health Organization (WHO) released a report on the initial findings of an extensive research project on domestic violence against women. The study includes over 24,000 interviews with women from 10 different countries. Countries included in the study are: Bangladesh, Brazil, Ethiopia, Japan, Peru, Namibia, Samoa, Serbia and Montenegro, Thailand and the United Republic of Tanzania. The report outlines extensive research that aims to measure the prevalence of intimate partner violence against women, both physical and sexual violence. The research also includes information on sexual violence from non partner experiences, such as sexual violence experienced as a child and forced first sex. The report aims to measure the health affects of violence against women on their mental, physical, sexual and reproductive health.
Interviewers sought information not only on women's experiences but also responses to violence against them and services sought. Fact pages for each country detail data collected for the report. The study includes recommendations for service providers, policy makers, national governments and international organizations in addressing the public health emergency.
To view the full report or summary report click here.
Compiled from: WHO Multi-Country Study on Domestic Violence against Women: Initial Outcomes on Prevalence, Health Outcomes and Women's Response, Claudia Garcia Moreno, et al., WHO, (WA 309) (2005) (PDF, 205 pages).