The Nordic Paradox refers to the coexistence of high gender equality and elevated rates of intimate partner violence (IPV, the most common form of violence against women) in Nordic countries. In Finland, for instance, one-third of women have experienced violence at the hands of a current or previous romantic partner: an extremely high number, +10.7% since 2022. In Denmark, from 1992 to 2016, more than every fourth homicide was committed by the victim’s partner (or ex), and 85% of these victims were women. Key factors contributing to this paradox include:
- Backlash Effect: Increased gender equality may provoke violence as men perceive a loss of power
- Violent Partners’ Rotation Hypothesis: Easier separation from abusive partners can lead to higher reported IPV rates
- Socioeconomic Inequalities: Despite strong welfare systems, health inequalities persist, exacerbated by factors like alcohol consumption and smoking
- Legal System Limitations: Ineffective responses to IPV reporting can discourage victims from seeking help
Read more on Europeancorrespondent.com, Ifstudies.org, Nordics.info, Nordicwelfare.org, Socio-hub.com, Theperspective.se
