Adressing the root cause of violence against women from a romanian forensic perspective

Abstract

Summary:Introduction. The violence against women sadly represents a highly prevalent phenomenon, in recent years Romania has faced a concerning increase in violence against women and domestic violence in particular. This dark reality underscores the need for urgent and coordinated action by state institutions, NGOs, and civil society, being a harsh reality in forensic medicine. Purpose of the research. The aim of this paper is to highlight the problems that contribute to domestic violence especially violence against women in Romania based on our daily forensic practice, pointing out some possible solutions. Materials and methods. We identified a complex etiology underlying this phenomenon, with real limitations imposed by administrative data collection in Romania, hindering the fair assessment of public policies and current legislation. Results. Based on the data colected for 2021, women represent the lead majority of domestic violence cases. 23,498 women suffered assault or other acts of violence, 4,431 were threatened (according to Article 206 of the New Criminal Code), and 100 women were raped. 19,094 of the perpetrators are or have been married to the victim, and 11,287 are current or former partners. Discussions. We reiterate the need to create an integrated system for collecting data on domestic violence and other forms of violence against women. We present the current situation from a forensic point of view, options available for the victim, and posible solutions. Conclusions. Collecting and publicly presenting incomplete/truncated data can lead public opinion to conclude that violence against women is a marginal phenomenon in Romanian society.