Horrible statistics: Hungary tops EU in intimate partner violence rates

Over the past 12 years, the number of women suffering from intimate partner violence in Hungary has more than doubled, placing the country at the top of the EU rankings. A staggering 54.6% of Hungarian women report experiencing psychological, physical, or sexual violence from a partner, often repeatedly. Despite rising crime rates, few cases lead to prosecution, and many victims hesitate to seek help due to a lack of trust in authorities.

Scary numbers in intimate partner violence against women

In the European Union, 31.8% of women report experiencing intimate partner violence, with 14.6% facing repeated abuse, Szabad Európa reports.

However, Hungary’s alarming figure of 54.6% surpasses all other member states, followed by Finland (52.6%) and Slovakia (50.2%).

By contrast, countries like Portugal, Bulgaria, and Poland report significantly lower rates (22.5%, 20.5%, and 19.6%, respectively). Hungarian women also face more severe forms of abuse, with 41.1% subjected to physical and sexual violence, according to the results of a study conducted by Eurostat, the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) and the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE), which has just been published for the period 2020-2024.

Worsening trend: Women do not trust authorities

The trend is worsening; in 2012, only 21% of Hungarian women reported such experiences. The doubling of cases is reflected in police statistics, yet only 6% of victims currently turn to authorities for help, down from 14% a decade ago. This reluctance stems from limited legal action and inadequate protective measures.

Hungary’s refusal to ratify the Istanbul Convention, citing alignment with national policies and existing legal protections, has drawn criticism.

Women’s rights expert Dr Noá Nógrádi argues that Hungary’s legal framework and institutional practices fail to protect victims effectively.

Issues include inconsistent application of existing laws, insufficient temporary restraining orders, and a lack of tailored victim support services.

Civil society organisations also highlight the absence of accessible data. Without systematic research and analysis, it is difficult to assess the effectiveness of policies or to implement meaningful reforms. Dr Nógrádi stresses that comprehensive data collection is a prerequisite for addressing societal issues like intimate partner violence. However, in Hungary, organisations conducting such research often face stigmatisation.

Without genuine political will and structural reforms, experts warn that Hungary will struggle to combat its worsening domestic violence crisis effectively.

Read also:

• Socialists propose fund for preventing violence against women in Hungary
• BREAKING: Missing American woman murdered in Budapest – UPDATED
• Massive search underway for missing 16-year-old Ukrainian girl – Check out her photo