Ireland report finds 26% of adults have experienced sexual violence

A new study by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) and Cuan, utilizing data from the 2022 Central Statistics Office Sexual Violence Survey, reveals that 26% of adults in Ireland have experienced sexual violence since the age of 17.

The research highlights significant disparities in victimization risks. Women are considerably more likely to report experiences than men, with 39% of women reporting sexual violence compared to 12% of men. Other high-risk groups identified include younger adults, bisexual individuals, and gay men.

Regarding the nature of the incidents, 25% of respondents experienced intimate partner violence only, 40% experienced non-intimate partner violence only, and 35% reported experiencing both. The study also found that most perpetrators of non-intimate partner sexual violence were known to the victims, such as friends, acquaintances, neighbors, or family members, rather than strangers. Many incidents occurred in familiar settings, including the victims' own homes, other people's homes, pubs, and clubs.