Domestic violence: why the number of cases has increased

The number of domestic violence cases in Ukraine has increased. However, this rise should not be viewed with alarm. Instead, it reflects growing public awareness and a more effective response to the issue.

This was stated by Maryna Lehenka, vice-president of the NGO «La Strada-Ukraine,» in a discussion on Hromadske Radio.

«The numbers may seem alarming at first glance, but a significant part of the 80% increase is due to heightened awareness among the population and increased attention from law enforcement agencies, including the prosecutor’s office, toward domestic violence.»

Lehenka also noted that the full-scale war in Ukraine has contributed to a rise in aggression within society. It impacts domestic abuse cases. However, she emphasized that the rise in numbers is also linked to improved responses. Ukraine has had criminal liability for domestic violence since 2019, but it took time to develop effective practices and responses.

«The war is certainly a factor, increasing overall aggression in society, which affects domestic violence in families. However, the real cause of the rising numbers lies in the improved response mechanisms, including criminal liability, which has been in place since 2019,» Lehenka explained.

The ratification of the Istanbul Convention has also been crucial in bringing attention to domestic abuse. This framed it not just as a family issue but as a societal problem with serious consequences.

«The ratification of the Istanbul Convention has prompted the state to pay even more attention to this issue. It has helped people understand that domestic violence is not just a private family matter, but a social problem with potentially severe consequences,» Lehenka added.

This increase in domestic violence statistics can be attributed to both negative factors, such as societal aggression due to war, and positive developments, such as greater legal and institutional focus on addressing the issue. For instance, a specialized department has been created within the prosecutor’s office, which has led to a rise in criminal proceedings related to domestic violence.

«While the statistics can seem overwhelming, they also reflect positive changes, such as increased state attention and criminal proceedings in domestic violence cases,» Lehenka said.

Starting December 19, amendments to the Code of Administrative Offenses will come into force, recognizing a child who witnesses domestic violence as a victim of that violence. Lehenka pointed out that this will likely lead to an apparent increase in the number of children affected by domestic violence, though in reality, it will reflect improved identification of such cases.

«From December 19, the law will recognize children who witness domestic violence as victims. This is a significant change. While it will seem like a rise in affected children, it will actually indicate better identification of these cases,» she concluded.