A study published in BMC Public Health examines the development of domestic violence (DV) laws globally since the early 1980s. It analyzes data from Women, Business and the Law, covering 190 economies from 1980 to 2024. The research categorizes DV laws into several types, including those specifically targeting domestic violence, gender-based violence, family violence, and those found in criminal codes.

The findings indicate a strong negative correlation between the existence of DV laws and the prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV). DV laws and criminal codes are particularly effective in reducing IPV rates. Additionally, the number of laws addressing DV is linked to lower IPV prevalence. The study highlights regional disparities, noting that higher-income countries tend to adopt DV laws earlier than those in lower-income regions.

The conclusion emphasizes that the presence and types of DV laws play a crucial role in addressing IPV effectively. Comprehensive legal frameworks are essential for mitigating domestic violence and protecting victims.