Reported cases of domestic violence rise 20 per cent in four years
The number of reported domestic violence cases in Belgium increased by 20 per cent between 2021 and 2025, according to figures provided by Justice minister Annelies Verlinden (CD&V) in response to a written question from MP Sophie De Wit (N-VA). Experts believe the real number of incidents is likely to be far higher.
In 2021, authorities recorded 56,346 cases. By 2025, that figure had risen to 67,583, an average of around 185 cases per day. Over the five-year period from 2021 to 2025, prosecutors registered more than 324,000 domestic violence cases in total.
Most incidents involve physical aggression, although the figures also include stalking, threats and relationship conflicts. Intentional assault and battery remains the most common offence, accounting for more than one in three cases. Other frequent offences include harassment, relationship disputes, violations of visitation rights and threats.
Many cases remain hidden
Experts believe the real number of incidents of partner violence is likely far higher, as victims often delay reporting abuse.
“Research shows that some victims only report the incident to the police when the situation becomes very serious or has escalated. Victims only do so after an average of 30 incidents,” said Veerle Cielen, a magistrate specialising in domestic violence at the Limburg public prosecutor’s office.
“We regularly deal with victims who have been physically and psychologically abused throughout their relationship. Until they've had enough and go to the police anyway, because they want to end the relationship.”
"Too many invisible tragedies are still unfolding behind the facades of so many homes in this country"
Shame, fear, financial dependence and concerns for children can all prevent victims from coming forward. Many cases are instead initiated by police intervention rather than by victims filing complaints themselves.
“It’s positive that more victims are finding their way to the police, but too many invisible tragedies are still unfolding behind the facades of so many homes in this country,” De Wit said. “We must further lower the barrier to reporting by facilitating the operation of regional Safe Houses with sufficient liaison officers from police districts and by providing sufficient criminologists from the public prosecutor's office.”
Majority of cases dismissed
A large share of domestic violence cases do not result in criminal prosecution. Around 60 per cent of cases are ultimately dismissed, while only a minority lead to prosecution or alternative measures such as probation.
According to prosecutors, some dismissals occur because of insufficient evidence, while others reflect attempts to resolve situations through support services or preventive measures.
At the same time, temporary restraining orders are being imposed more frequently. Their use has more than doubled since 2021, rising from 438 cases to 926 last year. However, such orders are still often violated.
To improve protection for victims, De Wit has proposed legislation that would allow judges to require the use of a specialised monitoring app in more cases, including those involving conditional release, electronic monitoring or temporary restraining orders.
Under the system, both the perpetrator and the victim would carry GPS-enabled devices. If the perpetrator violates the restraining order by approaching the victim, the victim would immediately receive a warning while the electronic monitoring centre would be alerted, allowing law enforcement to intervene quickly.
Resources if you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence:
Professional helpline 1712
Safe House
General Welfare Centre
© PHOTO FREDRIK SANDBERG / TT
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