Gender-Based Violence, Twin Pandemic to COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Gender Studies

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated pre-existing global inequalities and highlighted interconnectedness.
• Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive issue linked to gender inequality and toxic masculinity, existing globally with varying severity.
• Government responses to COVID-19, including lockdowns, led to a significant increase in GBV.

Purpose of the Study:

• To underscore the need for a global response to gender-based violence (GBV) comparable to that for COVID-19.
• To emphasize the importance of developing mitigating mechanisms to protect marginalized groups, particularly women and girls, from GBV.
• To advocate for equal attention to intersecting social identities that increase vulnerability to both pandemics.

Main Methods:

• This study is a conceptual analysis and literature review.
• It synthesizes information from global health organizations and academic research.
• It examines the intersectionality of social factors contributing to vulnerability.

Main Results:

• Lockdowns implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic correlated with a significant rise in reported GBV.
• Certain groups of women face heightened susceptibility to both GBV and COVID-19 due to intersecting marginalization and discrimination.
• The pandemic experience underscores the critical need for proactive GBV mitigation strategies.

Conclusions:

• GBV is a parallel pandemic requiring urgent and dedicated global attention and resources.
• Effective strategies must address the intersectionality of vulnerabilities to protect marginalized women and girls.
• Eradicating inequality necessitates a comprehensive approach that tackles both public health crises and gender-based violence.