Women who report situations of violence: a look at the factors that influence their decision

Abstract

The article addresses the issue of gender-based violence in the domestic and family sphere in Paraguay, with the objective of identifying the factors that influence women's decision to report the situations they have experienced. A mixed methodology was employed, combining quantitative analysis of the National Survey on the Situation of Women in Paraguay (ENSIMUP, 2021) with qualitative interviews with women who filed reports and professionals who assist them. The research reveals that 57% of the women surveyed have experienced violence in the family sphere, and 79% of these women report that these situations occurred at the hands of their partners or ex-partners, with 76% of these situations perceived as serious or very serious. Despite the high prevalence and severity, only 5% of women who have experienced violence decide to file a report. The determining factors for reporting include economic autonomy, social support, and knowledge of their rights. However, the patriarchal system permeates institutions, generating re-victimization, stigmatization, criminalization, and lack of effective protection, which hinders access to justice and discourages reporting. Women who file reports demonstrate resilience, seeking to protect their lives and those of their children and break the cycle of violence. The conclusion is that it is crucial to strengthen the implementation of Law 5777/2016, reduce bureaucracy, and promote awareness to ensure more just and effective access to justice for women.