UNICEF has warned that over 600 million children worldwide are exposed to violence at home, with the highest rates in Oceania, sub-Saharan Africa, and Central and Southern Asia. These figures reflect deep regional inequalities and the widespread abuse that women face globally. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell emphasized that the safety and autonomy of women are essential for children’s well-being, highlighting the urgent need to address domestic violence as both a human rights and public health issue.
Updated UN global estimates, published by the World Health Organization on behalf of the UN Violence Against Women Inter-Agency Working Group, show that more than one in ten adolescent girls and women aged 15 and older have experienced physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner in the past 12 months. Globally, one in three women experiences physical or sexual violence in her lifetime, primarily by an intimate partner, underscoring persistent gender inequality and discrimination.
Regional data from UNICEF reveal where women and children are most at risk. In Oceania, just over half of all children—around three million—live with a mother who has recently experienced intimate partner violence. Sub-Saharan Africa follows with 32 percent, affecting 187 million children. Central and Southern Asia, while slightly lower at 29 percent, account for the largest absolute number, with 201 million children impacted. Other regions include Northern Africa and Western Asia (26 percent, 52 million children), Eastern and South-Eastern Asia (21 percent, 105 million), Latin America and the Caribbean (19 percent, 35 million), Europe and Northern America (13 percent, 28 million), and Australia and New Zealand (5 percent, approximately 400,000 children).
UNICEF warns that children living in homes where mothers experience violence face both direct and indirect harm. Even if not physically abused, witnessing violence can damage trust with caregivers, cause long-term emotional trauma, and increase the likelihood of experiencing or perpetuating violence later in life. These effects can have lasting consequences on children’s safety, development, health, and education.
UNICEF is calling on governments to strengthen action against domestic violence through integrated strategies that address both violence against women and children. The organization emphasizes the importance of survivor-centred services, increased investment in prevention programs—including parenting and school-based initiatives—and challenging harmful social norms. Elevating the voices of survivors and young people is also essential to creating safer homes and communities.
