Towards a better understanding of intimate partner violence in Cote d'Ivoire for policy interventions

Abstract

Background/Aims Intimate partner violence is a critical and global public health issue affecting many women, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Studies from sub-Saharan African nations both during and post-conflict reveal an increasing risk of violence against women. Cote d'Ivoire is a West African nation that encountered multiple conflicts from 2002–2011. This study aimed at examining the underlying factors influencing violence against women in a post-conflict context. Methods A study was conducted using the cross-sectional survey data from the 2012 Cote d'Ivoire Demographic Health Survey. The outcome variable was any intimate partner violence. The predictor variables were sociodemographic characteristics of women, economic opportunities and partner-related characteristics. Three multivariate logistic regression models were performed, and odds ratios with a confidence interval of 95% were estimated. Results Just over 30% of respondents in the sample (3500) had experienced intimate partner violence. Respondents' age, religion, wealth index, residency and region were significantly related to violence. A partner's education level, alcohol consumption and polygamy status were also significantly associated with intimate partner violence. However, the results also indicated that women's level of education, occupation and decision-making on large purchases were not associated with intimate partner violence. Conclusions In Cote d'Ivoire, policymakers should consider risk factors for intimate partner violence and design interventions based on the ecological model to prevent it.