Written by Iliana Polyzou
Domestic abuse transcends geographic and social stratification and it’s predominantly women that experience it. According to studies, more than one in three women have been victims of physical or sexual abuse by a partner in their life, and this trend is reflected in the annual data from the Greek police, which show a consistent year-on-year increase.This widespread social problem goes far beyond the closed doors of a household. It is not considered only a private incident, but also a serious infringement on human rights requiring extensive legal and social interventions.
This is why Law 3500 /2006 is the fundamental legislative tool in addressing domestic violence, setting the legal foundation for its prevention and prosecution. Nevertheless, for many victims justice remained a daunting challenge, and that is why Greece took a firmer stance with the latest legal reforms in 2024-2025, ensuring that abusers are held accountable for their actions.
Before proceeding with the analysis of the Greek legal framework, I deem it essential to clarify the definition of the term. Domestic violence refers to violent and abusive actions occurring within the family environment, which can lead to physical pain, instill fear or coerce someone against their will. The term “family environment”, as defined under Greek Law 3500/2006, encompasses spouses or former spouses, cohabiting partners regardless of marital status, relatives by blood or marriage in the direct line, collateral relatives up to the fourth degree, adoptive parents and children, guardians, foster parents and any person permanently living within the same household.
Crimes related to domestic abuse, that have been also codified in the Greek Penal Code can be categorized in four sections: physical, psychological and sexual violence and economic or verbal abuse. Over the past two years, Greece has adopted stricter measures for penalizing domestic violence. More specifically, crimes concerning physical violence can now result in imprisonment of up to 10 years, while penalties of sexual crimes range from long-term imprisonment to life imprisonment. Physical and economic abuse can lead to imprisonment of up to 5 years. In case of repeat offenses, the penalty can be doubled while no suspension is granted. These legal reforms demonstrate the country’s effort to align with European and international initiatives aimed at preventing and fighting against gender-based violence.
Law 5172/2025 introduced significant changes, implementing five protection measures for victims of domestic violence. First of all, it provides the victims with the right to file up for restraining orders, including ban and physical proximity that can be imposed before formal charges. To secure the well-being of the victims, they are no longer obliged to show up to court in person, as they can submit their statements without physical presence. On top of that, perpetrators that have been involved in serious crimes are subject to mandatory pre-trial, while courts are now obligated to review custody of children with the option to remove parental rights from the perpetrator. Lastly, to avoid unnecessary delays cases of domestic violence undergo expedited adjudication.
A significant aspect of domestic violence is femicide, which refers to the intentional killing of a woman because she is a woman, motivated by gender-based discrimination and entrenched patriarchal norms. Although the term has been legally codified in many countries, it has not been independently criminalized in Greece. Instead, cases of femicides are prosecuted under the general provision for homicide with intent, which is Article 299 of the Greek Penal Code. Despite femicide not being legally recognized as a separate crime , gender-based motives can sometimes be considered as aggravating circumstances. There is growing pressure to legally recognize femicide as a distinct crime based on the frequency with which it occurs in Greece and the need for effective protection.
Despite the significant legal progress that has been reported, there are important gaps that remain in practice. Fear and social stigma are sometimes deterrent for talking, which results in many incidents to remain underreported. Most of the times court proceedings take longer than expected with many unnecessary delays, subjecting victims in a constant state of anxiety. Furthermore, specialized Domestic Violence Units, which are essential for providing expert support, are limited or entirely absent in many rural areas. As demonstrated in practice, the challenge of overcoming domestic violence cannot be fought single-handedly with law reform. It demands a wide range of approaches that move toward changing societal attitudes. To break the silence, it is crucial to create an environment where everyone feels safe to speak up.
If you are experiencing domestic violence, it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are legal and social support mechanisms created to protect you in these situations. In case of immediate danger contact the police at 100 and keep in mind that they are obligated to document the incident and protect you. You can also file a formal complaint either at the police station or the Prosecutor’s Office. Additionally, the SOS Helpline 15900 is created to provide psychological support and guidance on your next steps. It is important to undergo a medical examination at a public hospital, to document any injuries that can be used as a means of proof. If it is possible, try to remove yourself from the abusive environment and seek safety with someone you trust or at shelters that will provide you support.
To fight against domestic violence in Greece, requires more than just legal reforms. A holistic and sustained commitment from the state and society are mandatory. Although law 5172/2025 has introduced significant positive changes in this field, true change can only be achieved when survivors feel empowered to seek help without fear of stigma. Only by standing together can Greece build a future where domestic violence is no longer a silent wound, but a battle we face in the open, where survivors are met with compassion, safety, and the justice they deserve.
