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27 Percent Of Europeans Believe Rape Is Justified In Certain Situations, Study Finds

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A new study reveals that nearly 30 percent of Europeans believe that rape can be justified in certain circumstances.

The study published by the European Commission found that 27 percent of people across Europe say sexual intercourse without consent may be justified in certain situations.

According to the report, 12 percent of those respondents said it was acceptable if the person was drunk or on drugs; 11 percent said if a person went home voluntarily with someone else; 10 percent said if the person was wearing "provocative or sexy" clothing; and another 10 percent said if the person was clearly not saying no or physically fighting back.

The European Commission report also found that 22 percent of Europeans thought women often make up or exaggerate claims of abuse or rape and that 17 percent believe violence against women is often provoked by the victim.

The study surveyed over 27,000 people in the 28 member states of the European Union between June 4-13.

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