Research shows 25% of Lithuanian women experience domestic violence; reforms and support systems are in place.
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The Ministry of Social Security and Labour states that reforms have been implemented in Lithuania to combat domestic violence. A FRA survey involving over 114,000 women from 27 EU countries found that a quarter of women in Lithuania have experienced physical and/or sexual violence. While the physical violence rate was 15% in Lithuania compared to the EU average of 13.5%, the sexual violence rate was 10% in Lithuania versus 17.2% in the EU average. When specifically asked about intimate partner violence, 17% of respondents experienced physical or sexual violence, and 30% experienced psychological violence, with 31% experiencing at least one form of intimate partner violence. Experts note that the home is often the most dangerous place for women. National data shows that over 20,000 protection orders have been issued since the start of their application in July 2023, indicating domestic violence. While the prevalence of physical and sexual violence reported has slightly decreased over the last decade, the rate of psychological violence has decreased from 51% in 2014 to 30% in 2024, though experts caution that these trends must be interpreted carefully. Furthermore, public attitudes in Lithuania are concerning, with 43% of respondents agreeing that a woman is partially responsible for sexual assault if she is intoxicated, and 30% believing women often fabricate or exaggerate claims of violence. These negative societal attitudes are cited as a reason why victims may not report abuse. In response, Lithuania has implemented reforms, including the establishment of specialized support centers and a National Information Center on Sexual Violence, and has developed a program to change abusive behavior, aiming to prevent violence and provide comprehensive help to victims.
