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Law on domestic violence

What this indicator measures

The law is examined on four points: a law exists, it provides criminal penalties, it provides protection orders, and it covers physical, psychological, economic and sexual violence (including marital rape). Data from the 2026 edition of “Women, Business and the Law”, which describes the written laws in force on 1 October 2025 (not their actual application or uncodified customs).

How to read this?

“Comprehensive law” means everything is covered; “Partial law” means that penalties and protections exist but some forms of violence are not covered.

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186countries with data
2025data year(s)

In brief

Law on domestic violence: 186 countries and territories covered. Breakdown: Comprehensive law : 93 ; Law covering some forms of violence : 38 ; No law meeting these criteria : 55.

Why this indicator matters

A specific law on domestic violence sets penalties and protective measures. Comparing it shows which countries have written these rules into their law, and how broadly.

What makes this indicator vary

The texts were often adopted gradually, as a result of mobilisation, court decisions and international commitments. Their content also depends on the legal definition given to violence within the couple.

Reading precautions

The indicator assesses the written law, not police, justice or shelter resources, nor the actual number of cases. A comprehensive law may be rarely enforced, and the absence of a dedicated law does not rule out other criminal provisions.

Law on domestic violence

Comprehensive law (93)

Law covering some forms of violence (38)

No law meeting these criteria (55)

Frequently asked questions

Where does the "Law on domestic violence" data come from?

It comes from Banque mondiale – Women, Business and the Law (WBL 2.0). Site last updated: November 8, 2026. Each country is shown with the year of its most recent value.

What is a “comprehensive” law here?

It is a law that provides criminal penalties and protection orders, and that covers physical, psychological, economic and sexual violence, including marital rape.

What does a “partial” law mean?

The law exists with penalties and protections, but some forms of violence are not covered. The indicator does not say which ones are missing in each case.

Source and update

Source : Banque mondiale – Women, Business and the Law (WBL 2.0). Site last updated: November 8, 2026.

Indicators in the same category : Women's rights