| Sumario: | This study examined ethno-regional variations in public perceptions of domestic violence in Ghana, focusing on whether it is viewed as a private family matter or a criminal issue requiring law enforcement intervention. Using nationally representative data from all 16 administrative regions (N = 2,369), binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the factors influencing these perceptions. The results showed that ethnicity played a limited role, with only Akan ethnicity emerging as a significant predictor in the full sample and southern Ghana models. Public opinion on law enforcement's attitudes toward gender-based violence reports, age, political affiliation, and region of residence significantly predicted viewing domestic violence as a private issue. A comparison of southern and northern Ghana revealed distinct regional patterns. In the south, gender inequality issues such as women's underrepresentation in influential positions and unequal economic opportunities decrease the likelihood of viewing domestic violence as a private issue. In the north, community stigmatization of women reporting violence played a prominent role in shaping perceptions. These findings highlight the need for tailored, context-specific approaches to address domestic violence in Ghana, considering factors such as age, political affiliation, and local gender norms. Enhancing trust in the handling of domestic violence cases by law enforcement and addressing community stigma around reporting have emerged as crucial strategies. This study contributes to the understanding of the complex landscape of factors influencing domestic violence perceptions in Ghana, offering valuable insights for policymakers, law enforcement, and community organizations working to shift attitudes and improve prevention and intervention efforts.
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