On Sunday, March 20, 2022, Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mary of Denmark spoke out against partner violence in Denmark.
A nationwide study conducted by VIVE, on behalf of the Mary Fonden (Foundation) and with financial support from TrygFonden, discovered that “…29% of all women since the age of 15 have been exposed to either physical, sexual, or psychological partner violence at least once. The same goes for 12% of men…”
Furthermore, those who have been subjected to violence have been asked if there were witnesses to the violence and if the witnesses intervened. Two-thirds of the victims answer that no one saw or heard the violence, or that only children were present. When there have been adult witnesses, it has usually been a family member, friend, or neighbor. Among those who tell that there was an adult witness to the violence, only a third say that the witness did something to intervene. A significant majority of the victims who have experienced the support of a witness say that it made a positive difference for them.
Regarding the recent study, Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mary of Denmark noted:
“Partner violence can have major consequences for both those who are exposed to the violence and for the children who live in the shadow of the violence.
With a comprehensive population survey from VIVE, commissioned by the Mary Fonden, we have gained new knowledge about partner violence in Denmark.
The survey shows us that every fifth Dane is exposed to partner violence during their lifetime. We can also see that witnesses to the violence unfortunately, too rarely intervene. We need to change that, because when, for example, a friend, a sibling, or a neighbor reaches out and offers his or her help, it may be exactly what is needed for an end to the violence.
Many hold back — not out of fear — but because they are in doubt about what to do. Therefore, we need to spread knowledge about what can be done to help when witnessing partner violence.
Everyone has the right to a life without violence.
— HRH The Crown Princess”
For more information about the recent study regarding partner violence and to learn more about the Mary Fonden and the wonderful work they do please visit their official website in the link below: