Diverse realities across the EU
Violence is a shared problem, but the data shows clear differences between countries.
While one in three women across the EU has experienced violence, the prevalence varies widely between countries. In some Member States, like Finland, Sweden, and Denmark, nearly half of women report experiences of physical or sexual violence. In others, reported rates are significantly lower.
These differences don’t always reflect actual safety. They often point to how visible or acknowledged violence is and how willing women feel to speak about it.
Cultural norms, legal protections, and how the survey was conducted all play a role in what women share. This makes comparing countries complex, but important.