Reassessing criminalisation: a review of global responses to domestic violence

This paper critically examines global responses to domestic violence, arguing that dominant criminalisation frameworks often fail to provide meaningful protection or long-term justice for survivors. Although many governments frame domestic violence as a problem best addressed through punishment, cross-regional case studies from Latin America, Asia, Africa, and Europe reveal the limits—and at times harms—of carceral approaches. Rather than dismantling patriarchal power structures, punitive responses frequently reproduce the gendered, racialised, and economic hierarchies that sustain violence. Drawing on intersectional feminism, critiques of carceral feminism, and masculinity studies, the paper evaluates both the ideological foundations and practical outcomes of carceral and non-carceral strategies. It also explores the promise and challenges of community-led, restorative, and survivor-centred alternatives. Ultimately, it argues for a reimagined approach to justice that moves beyond the punishment–impunity binary and centres survivor autonomy, structural transformation, and long-term collective safety.