The Police are looking into community input and victim family opinions to enhance domestic violence response through a special committee. Reported incidents have surged by 67.45% this year compared to last year. Domestic Violence Departments are being established nationwide, offering temporary shelter to threatened women. The recent rise in reported cases also reveals that perpetrators, averaging 50 daily arrests, often have low education and income, viewing women as property. Social media is increasingly used for victim monitoring and abuse.
In Crete, domestic violence cases are not only numerous but also notably more violent. Most abusers are current partners, with a significant number of children turning violent against their parents. Recent high-profile murders have heightened awareness, prompting more victims to seek help. The spike in reported incidents, from 3,600 in the first quarter of 2023 to 5,337 this year, indicates a concerning trend.
Despite progress, many women face financial dependence and societal pressures hindering them from seeking help. A surge in reported crimes has occurred before, notably in July 2021 following high-profile murders. Awareness is growing, with neighbors increasingly reporting incidents. However, challenges remain, as seen in recent cases where police responses have been criticized for not adequately addressing the severity of situations.
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Approximately 50 men are arrested daily for domestic violence, spanning various educational and economic backgrounds. Despite differences, they share the belief that women are their property, justifying their abusive behavior. Social media is increasingly used for monitoring and victim abuse.
In a recent incident, a 30-year-old woman was physically assaulted by her partner during an argument in Heraklion. Despite claims of it being a “romantic game,” her 41-year-old partner was convicted and sentenced to three years in prison for domestic violence-related charges.
In Crete, domestic violence cases are prominent and often more violent compared to other regions. Most abusers are current spouses, with a smaller percentage being ex-partners. Shockingly, there’s a notable number of children turning violent against their parents. Recent high-profile cases, like the murders of Kyriaki Griva and Enkeleida, have heightened awareness and prompted more victims to seek help. The increase in reported incidents is significant, with nearly 850 arrests made in less than twenty days in May. Victims are typically women aged 35 to 50, often financially dependent on their abusers. Despite societal perceptions, more incidents are being reported, indicating a growing awareness of the issue.
The recent surge in reported domestic violence cases is not unprecedented, with past instances of similar increases, notably in July 2021 following high-profile murders. The police have initiated measures to address domestic violence, including the establishment of specialized departments and immediate shelters for threatened women. Working groups have been formed to formulate long-term policies, involving NGOs, government ministries, and victim relatives. Despite attributions to factors like quarantine and economic crisis, the core issue remains the possessive mindset of perpetrators. Empowering women and challenging victim-blaming attitudes are crucial in combating domestic violence. Social media also plays a role in monitoring and exacerbating abusive situations.
Since 2019, Domestic Violence Departments have been operational, aided by a specialized application to document incidents. The Ionian Islands register the most complaints, attributed to greater reporting rather than increased violence. Attica, Crete, and the North Aegean also feature high numbers, especially involving foreigners. Perpetrators now use cell phones and social media for systematic monitoring. Iceland is cited for its low rates, but its unique context and wealth play a role. Despite Scotland’s strong institutional framework, alcohol remains a significant factor in its domestic violence issues.
