Published on 24 August 2023

Domestic violence

Domestic violence is a widespread problem in Switzerland that causes great suffering. Every year, an average of 25 people die as a result of domestic violence, with the majority of those killed being women.

A broken ceramic plate symbolises domestic violence.

Domestic violence includes all forms of physical, sexual, psychological or economic violence. It usually takes place within the family and household, but can also affect people from current or former relationships who do not live in the same household. Any individual can be a victim of domestic violence, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, sex characteristics, origin or age. Children are often also affected.

Women are more likely to experience domestic violence. More information: Extent and legal situation with regard to violence against women.

You can find more information on this issue in the information sheets published by the Federal Office for Gender Equality (FOGE):

How many people are affected by domestic violence?

Around 40 per cent of all crimes recorded by the police in Switzerland happen at home. In 2021, there were 19,341 offences, including 69 attempted or completed homicides. In more than half of victim counselling cases, the victim and perpetrator of violence were in a partnership or family relationship. Women are victims more than twice as often as men. But children, people with disabilities and older people are also at increased risk of being affected by domestic violence.

In Switzerland, there are various statistics compiled and updated annually that provide figures on domestic violence:

Further information can be found in our publications on this issue:

What are the causes of domestic violence?

Violence within partnerships has many causes. Research has identified various risk factors that can lead to domestic violence. Particularly noteworthy among these factors are economic hardship, unemployment and issues of addiction (e.g. alcohol), which can lead to increased stress and conflict situations in the family. A lack of gender equality and persistent gender stereotypes have also been identified as causes.

The following of our publications shed light on the causes and effects of domestic violence:

Acts of violence within marriage, within registered partnerships and against children are offences prosecuted ex officio, and as such are prosecuted without the need for the victim to file a complaint. The issue of domestic violence is governed by various laws at federal and cantonal level.häuslicher Gewalt regeln.

For more information, see Extent and legal situation with regard to violence against women.

Further information on the legal situation can be found in our information sheets:

Further publications

All publications on domestic violence

Information for those affected

Are you a victim of domestic violence or do you perpetrate violence yourself?

Get help: Support services