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Early evidence from China and Italy shows a drastic increase in domestic violence

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Lockdowns leading to forced co-habitation of extended families in small living spaces, stress of increased workload as parents work from home and added economic stress all contribute to the increase

Early evidence from China and Italy shows a dramatic increase in domestic violence as a result of extended quarantine and lockdown measures implemented to manage the spread of COVID-19. In China, police reports suggest that domestic violence has tripled during the epidemic (Fraser, E. (2020) Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Violence against Women and Girls, VAWG Helpdesk Research Report No. 284. London, UK: VAWG Helpdesk “The Report”). Domestic violence organizations in China noted that the extended quarantine and other social distancing measures led to the increase as a result of household stress over economic and health shocks combined with forced coexistence in narrow living spaces.

The Report also found that online manuals on how women can protect themselves and their children from domestic violence during the epidemic and directing them to support services like legal aid, have been particularly useful during this time.

“Those at risk are encouraged to take the lead in educating themselves as to their rights and the resources available to assist them, be they counseling services, legal helplines or shelters, so that they know what their options are should their situations escalate”, says Yvonne Wakefield of The Warrior Project, an online portal of information and resources for victims of domestic violence.

Thankfully, much of the help available in South Africa is easily accessed online or by telephone, so victims are able to access it using mobile devices. For example, says Wakefield “our free legal helpline and WhatsApp line are manned by an all-women team of experienced lawyers”. Other resources available on the site are contact details for other helplines, shelters, and counseling services, all of which are operational during the lockdown.

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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.