WIZO Survey Shows 81% of Israelis Reject Viewing Domestic Abuse as Private
A new WIZO survey reveals that 81% of Israelis reject viewing domestic violence as a private matter, while half of the public reports a surge in abuse amid the ongoing war.
Ahead of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, WIZO has launched a nationwide awareness month in Israel, highlighting a surge in domestic abuse against the backdrop of the prolonged war. A new survey commissioned by WIZO and conducted by the Roshink research institute reveals that 81% of the Israeli public rejects the notion that domestic violence is a private matter in which outsiders should not intervene. However, this misconception remains more prevalent among the Arab sector (28%), low-income earners, and the Haredi public.
Public Awareness and Active Intervention
The survey indicates that half of the population (50%) believes domestic violence incidents have increased since October 7, 2023. When suspecting that a woman in their close circle—such as a friend, neighbor, relative, or colleague—is experiencing abuse, 87% stated they would take active steps, with 33% saying they would turn to the police or welfare services. Furthermore, 91% indicated they would intervene if they had certain knowledge of domestic abuse.
WIZO's Call for Government Action
World WIZO CEO Col. (Res.) Marcel Assouline emphasized that while public awareness is growing, the state bears ultimate responsibility for combating the phenomenon. WIZO is urging the government to prioritize a fully funded national strategy to prevent violence, protect victims, and rehabilitate survivors. "Violence does not always start with a blow; it can manifest through invisible practices such as control, isolation, humiliation, and emotional terrorism," Assouline noted, calling on the public to remain vigilant and support victims.
