The number of registered cases of sexual violence and rape continues to grow across the European Union. According to fresh data from Eurostat published in late April 2026, EU police recorded 256,302 cases of sexual violence in 2024, of which 98,190 (38%) were rapes.
Compared to 2023, sexual violence cases increased by 5% (+12,097), while rapes rose by 7% (+6,291). Over the past ten years (2014–2024), the growth has been even more striking: sexual violence increased by 94%, and rapes by 150%.
The highest absolute number of reports is traditionally recorded in larger countries with high reporting rates: France, Germany, and Sweden. The lowest figures are seen in Cyprus, Malta, and Lithuania.
It is important to note that high figures in certain countries often reflect not only the actual crime situation, but also national legislation specifics and the level of victims’ trust in police. For example, in Sweden and France, a broader legal definition of rape and active campaigns encouraging victims to come forward lead to more comprehensive statistics.
The long-term trend shows an average annual increase in sexual violence of approximately 10% over the past decade.
At the same time, experts note that in some states — particularly in Western and Northern Europe — the system is under real strain due to the growth of certain categories of crime linked to migration and youth offending.
For the EU, this represents a serious challenge for gender equality and security policy. The European Commission and member states are actively advancing directives to combat violence against women; however, critics point to insufficient prevention effectiveness and a low conviction rate.