Administrative data on violence against women: What is it?

Violence against women and girls is the most pervasive human rights violation and public health concern, with nearly 1 in 3 women globally, subjected to violence in their lifetime. Data and research on violence against women are critical to better understand the phenomenon, and how to effectively address it.

Administrative data on violence against women is collected when survivors and perpetrators of violence interact with hotlines, police and courts, health systems, shelters, and other services. The collection and use of high-quality administrative data is crucial to inform the policies and programmes developed by governments to prevent and respond to violence against women.

UN Women developed a global methodological guidance and works at regional and country level closely with partners to strengthen administrative data systems and enhance the collection and use of administrative data to better prevent and respond to violence against women. This work was developed through the UN Women WHO Joint Programme on violence against women data with the support of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office of the United Kingdom.