Violence against women is a highly prevalent global issue. Intimate partner violence is the most common form of violence. The economic stress and joblessness during this pandemic crisis may also increase violence against women. Household work increases during this time as male members of the family are at home, which puts more burden and responsibilities on women and these responsibilities also cause stress among them.
The violence that women and their children are facing during the Covid-19 crisis cannot be ignored. It is one of the major negative effects of this pandemic.
For the women and children who already live in abusive relationships, this crisis has increased the intensity of violence. India, The United Kingdom, the United States and other countries suggest that there is an increase in domestic violence cases during the lockdown.
As social distancing measures are imposed and people are staying home, they have more time to spend in their houses which increases the risk of intimate partner violence. In some cases, this happens because of joblessness and men are not able to fulfil the basic needs of the family. It increases the level of stress among them and causes conflicts between families which takes the form of violence. The perpetrators may also impose restrictions on their partners by taking advantage of this crisis. They exercise more power and control.
These restrictions may cause stress among them because they have less contact with their families who may support and protect them from abusive relationships. This violence against women results in serious physical, mental, economic and sexual power which also causes serious injuries and health problems.
The Covid-19 pandemic has placed more burden on the health system and service providers. Due to the current situation, the health system and service providers are not able to cope with prevailing problems as much as women’s needs. The health system is now under stress.
Women who have been suffering violence may want a helpful and supportive family, relatives, neighbours and friends.