Violence against men in intimate partnerships in Dédougou, Burkina Faso: reported experiences, forms, and the culture of silence

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Résumé

Domestic violence research has largely focused on women as victims, leaving male victimisation under-recognised. This study examines the prevalence, forms, and consequences of domestic violence against men in Dédougou, Burkina Faso.

A mixed-methods design combined a KoboToolbox survey of 598 men with a current or past intimate relationship with 26 semi-structured interviews with male victims, women, religious and customary leaders, law enforcement, the judiciary, and social services (June–July 2025). The survey used non-probability convenience sampling, so the sample is not statistically representative of men in Dédougou or in Burkina Faso.

64.55% of surveyed participants reported experiencing at least one form of violence, most often verbal (49.50%), psychological (24.58%), economic (21.74%), sexual (11.54%), or physical (9.20%). The principal factors reported by respondents were economic difficulties (59.20%) and jealousy or infidelity (52.51%). Only 0.78% of those reporting violence sought help from law enforcement, while 43.26% stayed silent. Consequences included anxiety (45.65%), low self-esteem (31.27%), and social isolation (25.59%).

Domestic violence against men is common but under-recognised in Burkina Faso. Findings call for inclusive policies, formal recognition, support services, and awareness campaigns, without diminishing the gravity of violence against women.

Mots-clés

Burkina Faso, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, male victimisation, masculinity