Se Xchange: Disclose, Discuss, and Distress No More
- Share44
- Tweet
Nearly half of women in Estonia have encountered violence
Estonia's Statistics Bureau has unveiled the findings from its extensive survey on intimate relationships and the harrowing reality of partner violence. This extensive research delved into both men and women's experiences and demonstrated that an alarming 41% of women in Estonia have been victims of intimate partner violence at some point in their lives.
Unveiling the Invisible Torture
The survey revealed that the most common form of violence against women is psychological (29%), followed by physical (13%) and sexual (9%). Shockingly, women aged 18-29 are the most vulnerable, while those aged 65-74 are the least likely to experience violence.
Jana Bruns, a project manager at Statistics Estonia, shed light on the findings: "Of those who have suffered psychological violence, 23% have experienced their partner becoming enraged due to interactions with other individuals, and 19% have been subjected to behaviors that intimidate them, like shouting or damaging property."
Additionally, 16% of women reported a partner restricting their social interactions, and 13% have had their movements monitored through GPS, phones, or social media.
In terms of physical abuse, 16% of women have been shoved, pushed, or had their hair pulled in a hurtful manner, while 13% have been hit or attacked with objects. Threats of harm (12%) and fear (9%) are also common experiences.
Alcohol and Education: The Double-Edged Sword
Among women who have suffered intimate partner violence, 80% reported their abuser to be a previous partner, with Bruns revealing that women with less education are at a higher risk (48%, compared to 38% for those with higher education). Furthermore, unemployment among women seems to increase vulnerability to violence (52%, compared to 42% among employed women).
Notably, alcohol appears to play a significant role in violence incidents: "Nearly half of the violent incidents, 44%, occur when the partner is under the influence of alcohol," Bruns said.
The Unseen Victims: Men at the Crossroads
Although the study primarily focuses on women, 32% of men, or one in three men in Estonia, have reported experiencing intimate partner violence in their lifetime. This underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing all victims, irrespective of gender.
A Call to Action: Towards a Brighter Future
Awareness, support, and resources are crucial in combating intimate partner violence. In the EU, initiatives like the European Accreditation for Perpetrator Programmes and the Istanbul Convention endeavor to create safe spaces for victims, improve response strategies, and foster a supportive environment for all victims of domestic violence.
Moreover, creating local and national initiatives to cater specifically to male victims is essential, as is increasing research on the unique challenges faced by male victims in Estonia. By taking decisive action, we can ensure no one in Estonia has to suffer from the emotional and physical toll of intimate partner violence.
- Share44
- Tweet
- The survey conducted by Estonia's Statistics Bureau reveals a concerning 41% of women in Estonia have experienced intimate partner violence in their lives.
- The study also indicates a higher risk of intimate partner violence among women with less education and unemployment, and almost half of the incidents occur when the partner is under the influence of alcohol.
- Surprisingly, the survey reveals that one in three men in Estonia, or 32%, have reported experiencing intimate partner violence at some point in their lives.
- To combat intimate partner violence effectively, it is crucial to foster awareness, support, and build resources, targeting both women and men, and promoting research on unique challenges faced by male victims in Estonia.
