Domestic violence continues to rise in France . According to figures published on Thursday, November 5, 2026, 285,000 victims were recorded by the police and gendarmerie in 2025, representing a 5% increase compared to the previous year. This data demonstrates the persistent scale of a phenomenon that primarily affects women and of which a portion remains invisible in official statistics.
Domestic violence remains a major public health and safety issue. In 2025, internal security forces recorded 285,000 victims of domestic violence, according to the annual report from the Ministry of the Interior's Statistical Service (SSMSI). This figure represents a 5% increase year-on-year, confirming the rise in reported incidents. It encompasses violence perpetrated by a current or former partner, within the context of a current or past relationship. The reported situations can include physical, sexual, or psychological violence, as well as threats and other offenses committed within a marital context.
This increase, however, should be interpreted with caution. Police statistics measure incidents reported to law enforcement and do not necessarily reflect the full extent of violence actually experienced. A rise could indicate an increase in incidents, but also improved reporting or a greater willingness among victims to file a complaint. Despite awareness campaigns and the development of support services, many people continue not to report the violence they experience, particularly out of fear of reprisals, due to economic dependence, or because of the control exerted by their partner.
Women are the majority of victims of domestic violence.
Women remain the primary victims of domestic violence. This reality affects people of all ages and social classes, even though material circumstances and isolation can complicate access to protection. Domestic violence is not limited to physical blows and injuries. It can take the form of repeated humiliation, threats, control over movements, monitoring of communications, or financial deprivation. These behaviors can develop gradually and make leaving the perpetrator particularly difficult.
The consequences often extend beyond immediate physical harm. Victims may suffer lasting psychological trauma, professional difficulties, or housing problems when they are forced to leave their homes. Children exposed to parental violence can also experience significant repercussions on their health and development. Therefore, providing support requires a collaborative approach involving the police, the justice system, healthcare professionals, social workers, and specialized organizations.
Public authorities' mobilization still faces obstacles
For several years, public authorities have strengthened measures designed to protect victims. Protection orders, in particular, allow the courts to take restraining orders against an abusive partner. Emergency alert phones and electronic monitoring bracelets are other preventative tools used when situations present a particular risk. The national hotline 3919, dedicated to listening to and guiding women victims of violence, also remains an important point of contact for support services.
The effectiveness of these measures, however, depends on their accessibility and the coordination between the various stakeholders. Associations regularly highlight the difficulties encountered in obtaining emergency accommodation, accessing legal support, or ensuring the safety of victims after a separation. The issue of human and financial resources remains crucial, particularly for local organizations that provide daily support. Situations of violence can also persist after the breakup, when the former partner continues to exert pressure or make threats.
A major challenge for prevention and protection
The 2025 figures serve as a reminder that combating domestic violence cannot rely solely on criminal prosecution. Prevention, early detection of dangerous situations, and support for victims are essential tools. Healthcare professionals, schools, employers, and social services can all play a role in identifying the first signs of violence. Training for those involved and facilitating the sharing of information between institutions are also crucial to preventing situations from escalating.
With 285,000 victims recorded in a single year, domestic violence remains a widespread problem in France. The 5% increase underscores the need to continue ongoing efforts while improving our understanding of the forms of violence that still go unrecorded in statistics. The challenge for authorities is to enable victims to report abuse safely, obtain rapid protection, and rebuild their lives without fear of further violence. Beyond the annual figures, the capacity of public services to prevent assaults and provide lasting protection for those affected remains central to the debate.
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