Abstract
Since the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been reports of increased violence against women globally. We aimed to explore factors associated with reported increases in gender-based violence (GBV) during the pandemic in the Asia-Pacific region. We conducted 47 semi-structured interviews with experts working in sexual and reproductive health in 12 countries in the region. We analysed data thematically, using the socio-ecological framework of violence. Risks associated with increased GBV included economic strain, alcohol use and school closures, together with reduced access to health and social services. We highlight the need to address heightened risk factors, the importance of proactively identifying instances of GBV and protecting women and girls through establishing open and innovative communication channels, along with addressing underlying issues of gender inequality and social norms. Violence is exacerbated during public health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Identifying and supporting women at risk, as well as preventing domestic violence during lockdowns and movement restrictions is an emerging challenge. Our findings can help inform the adoption of improved surveillance and research, as well as innovative interventions to prevent violence and detect and protect victims.
Highlights
Gender-based violence (GBV), intimate partner violence and sexual violence against women, is a significant public health issue, a severe violation of women’s human rights [1–4] and a barrier to global socioeconomic development [5]
Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated that 30% of all women and girls aged 15–49 who had ever been in a relationship had experienced physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner [1], with GBV named as a ‘global pandemic’ [6]
Decreased access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) facilities may prevent women coming forward to receive family planning, which leads to unwanted pregnancies and in some cases may lead to unsafe abortion and maternal death, in resource-poor communities
Summary
Gender-based violence (GBV), intimate partner violence and sexual violence against women, is a significant public health issue, a severe violation of women’s human rights [1–4] and a barrier to global socioeconomic development [5]. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated that 30% of all women and girls aged 15–49 who had ever been in a relationship had experienced physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner [1], with GBV named as a ‘global pandemic’ [6]. The health impacts of violence on women and their children are significant, including life-altering injuries, disabilities, mental disorders, sexual and reproductive health (SRH). Decreased access to SRH facilities may prevent women coming forward to receive family planning, which leads to unwanted pregnancies and in some cases may lead to unsafe abortion and maternal death, in resource-poor communities.
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