According to the Council of Europe, around 12-15% of all women have been in an abusive relationship from the age of 16 and approximately 20-25% of women across the European region suffer physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives. One of the most concerning elements surrounding domestic violence is that existing strategies do not take into account all those affected by the phenomenon; whilst women in heterosexual relationships and their children are considered, intimate partner violence in LGBT, men and youth relationships receive little attention.The Commission’s Daphne III Programme builds on the achievements of the previous Daphne Programmes aiming to take preventative measures and provide support and protection for victims and groups at risk from all forms of violence. The strongest focus of the Programme is placed on children as victims of domestic violence. Violence against women and domestic violence has a direct and indirect impact on children; witnessing violence amongst adults is traumatising and has a lasting effect on them.Furthermore, it is essential to note that new forms of abuse which have developed through the internet represent a considerable and worrying challenge for the authorities. However, cyberspace also presents an important opportunity to provide support to those affected by domestic violence and raise awareness. Stigma and discrimination have formed significant setbacks in dealing with domestic violence and, as such, the importance of raising awareness needs to be stressed in order to alter public perceptions.This international symposium will analyse the existing challenges in shaping a truly comprehensive and holistic strategy and toolkit for assessing, preventing and protecting against every type of violence and abuse in a domestic environment. Delegates will focus on the role of regional and international organisations in combating domestic violence at all levels and analyse evidence of the repercussions of intimate partner violence. Furthermore, the symposium will discuss the urgent need to collect comprehensive data in order to deal with the challenges posed and provide an invaluable platform to share best practices.