By: Salsabil Salek
The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped our world, leaving no aspect of society untouched. Beyond the visible impacts on health and the economy, the pandemic has cast a shadow on gender-based violence. Lockdowns and social restrictions imposed for public health, inadvertently created conditions that increased the risk of violence against women. As we strive for a world of equality and justice, it is imperative to understand the roots of this surge in gender-based violence.
The COVID-19 lockdowns imposed to lower the spread of the virus forced individuals to spend more time at home, amplified existing power dynamics and escalated tensions in abusive relationships. The lockdowns exacerbated already existing abuse through factors such as economic uncertainties, cramped living conditions, deserted public space, lack of mobility and isolation from abusers. Federal consultations with Canadian frontline organizations found that sexual gender-based violence (SGBV), especially domestic violence, increased from 20% to 30% during lockdowns. According to data, there has been an increase in calls to domestic violence helplines in many countries around the world. The victims of domestic violence also faced challenges in getting help as they became isolated from their traditional support systems. One of the challenges in combating gender-based violence during lockdowns was the difficulty in reporting. During quarantine and social isolation, it meant that the abusers were always close to their victims, and other people were not able to see the signs of violence and intervene. Additionally, lockdowns and related restrictions affected how frontline organizations worked. Such as moving their in-person services online. As these services became virtual, it also made it unsafe to reach out to someone living with their abuser.
Furthermore, the rise in gender-based violence puts additional strain on services that continue to operate. Gemma Woods, manager of monitoring and evaluating knowledge for the UN Trust Fund to End Violence against Women, said that this surge in violence is not surprising because “the risk factors are exacerbated”. An unprecedented crisis brings unprecedented challenges. These circumstances highlight that social workers are as essential as health workers. We need to start to prioritize social crises such as gender-based violence equally as health concerns during future pandemics.
As we navigate the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing the surge in gender-based violence must be a top priority. By understanding the nuances of this shadow pandemic and taking collective action, we can build a future where everyone, regardless of gender, can live free from fear and violence. For future emergencies, we need to consider social safety as well as health safety so people suffering from domestic violence or Gender-based violence have the means to seek help.