Regulation of domestic violence: a global perspective

Abstract

Background: This study examines the global evolution of the laws addressing domestic violence (DV), providing insights on the number and types of laws adopted by countries around the world since early 1980s. It highlights disparities in law adoption across different regions and countries with varying levels of economic development. Methods: The empirical analysis is based on data from Women, Business and the Law (WBL), covering 190 economies annually from 1980 to 2024. The study introduces a distinction between laws related to DV based on legal source, distinguishing between DV laws, gender-based violence (GBV) laws, family violence laws, and criminal code. The study then presents a systematic descriptive analysis of cross-country DV laws and their association with the intimate partner violence (IPV) prevalence. Results: There is a significant negative correlation between the presence of DV laws and the prevalence of IPV. The study finds that the type of law that regulates DV matters. Specifically, DV laws and criminal codes are more strongly associated with lower IPV prevalence. The number of laws regulating DV is also related to IPV prevalence. Additionally, the study reveals regional disparities in the adoption of laws, with higher-income countries adopting laws earlier than lower-income regions. Conclusion: The presence and types of DV laws matter significantly for IPV prevalence. Comprehensive legal frameworks are vital in effectively mitigating DV.