France’s hidden war: A woman dies every 72 hours at home

The ministry reported a total of 138 domestic violence-related deaths in 2024, including 31 male victims.

According to Le Figaro, national investigations revealed that the majority of these murders occurred in the couple’s shared home or at the victim’s or perpetrator’s residence — 90% of the cases took place in such locations.

The report states that 49 murders were committed with knives and 34 with firearms.

In 31% of the killings, an argument preceded the act, while 16% occurred after one partner refused to end the relationship.

The ministry also revealed that 47% of the murdered women had previously experienced domestic violence and reported it to law enforcement, and 81% of those victims had filed formal complaints.

However, emergency hotlines and protective measures rarely managed to save their lives. Only one victim was protected through the “Severe Danger Hotline,” and just two victims had judicial protection orders in place. Meanwhile, only one perpetrator was under judicial supervision at the time.

The study shows that most perpetrators were men aged between 20 and 49, though crimes committed by individuals over 70 years old have risen significantly compared to the previous year.

The typical perpetrator, according to the report, is a French man, married, and unemployed.

This is far from the first time France has been shaken by reports of domestic violence against women. In previous years, large demonstrations were held across the country to denounce gender-based violence.

In November 2019, thousands marched in Paris demanding government action against domestic violence.

Yet, activists say the French government’s response remains largely symbolic. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, reacting to the recent figures on X, called the situation “unbearable,” adding:

“Police and gendarmerie are fully mobilized. We are active on all fronts—from prevention to punishment.”

Women’s rights groups, however, argue that government action is “grossly insufficient.”

Maëlle Noir, from the movement Nous Toutes (“All of Us”), went even further, stating: “The government is not just complicit in these killings — it is responsible for them.”

Despite mounting criticism, President Emmanuel Macron has repeatedly described his administration’s record on this issue as “flawless.”

Women’s organizations have called on citizens to join nationwide demonstrations on November 22, marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.