Women's History Month: A Look Inside the Covid-19 Lockdown

Although the lockdown has helped to decrease cases of Covid-19, it has also had several negative impacts. The most harmful impact that it has made is the increase of domestic violence across the globe. Domestic violence was already a very serious and prominent issue but it has been made worse by the arrival of the Civid19 virus.

According to the UN, cases of domestic violence have increased about 20% worldwide.

Due to the pandemic, families are put under strain as they have to worry more about the loss of jobs, financial issues and health-related issues, and confined living conditions. Uncertainty and stress about the future lead to more aggression at home. This was also the case with the global financial crisis of 2009 and natural disasters. Furthermore, as stated by the French Secretary of Equality, Marlene Schiappa, “Confinement is the breeding ground for domestic abuse.” According to the UN, cases of domestic violence have increased about 20% worldwide.

The abusers are in control of almost all aspects of their victims’ lives, even more so when they are always at home together.

Prior to the quarantine, it was estimated that one in three women will face domestic violence n their lives. Less than 40% of these victims reached out for help. Now because of quarantine these victims and their abusers are trapped with each other with almost no way out. While the restrictions that are put in place help decrease the number of Covid cases, they also isolate victims of abuse from friends, families, colleagues, and other support networks. The added financial insecurity means that they cannot leave their abusers because they would have a difficult time finding means to support themselves. The abusers are in control of almost all aspects of their victims’ lives, even more so when they are always at home together.

Additionally, the overburdened judicial, healthcare, and social services make it harder for survivors and victims to receive the help they need. The healthcare systems of most countries are overwhelmed as they struggle to care for patients affected by the virus and their resources are diverted towards dealing with the pandemic.

Canada’s minister for women and gender equality,

Maryam Monsef, says that her department consulted with frontline organizations across Canada and found that there was a 20% – 30% increase in rates of gender-based violence and domestic violence.

The York Regional Police, which serves the north of Toronto, reported a 22% increase in domestic incidents since quarantine measures came into effect in March. However, in some rural communities, some frontline organizations report that it’s unnaturally quiet. Many women aren’t able to call for help because they are under surveillance. Monsef says that the pandemic has empowered perpetrators of domestic violence.

"Taking action against gender based violence is an integral part of Canada's recovery from the impacts of Covid-19. Women's safety must be the foundation on which progress is built." Maryam Monsef

Many governments have tried to put in place measures to help with the issue of domestic violence and abuse during quarantine. Italy has launched an app that allows victims of abuse to ask for help without having to make a phone call. The French government is helping victims by providing new hotlines, websites, and resources. The Canadian federal government has pledged $50 million to help shelters, sexual assault centers and similar facilities. Though governments, charities, and other organizations are all trying to help with the issue of domestic violence, there are still things we as individuals can do to help.

Many people think that if they hear signs of abuse, it is none of their business and that they should just ignore the situation. People could be hearing sounds of violence from their neighbours’ houses or see abuse happen right in front of their eyes and yet they would still stay quiet. They think that it is not their place to interfere. Nonetheless, it is your business. It is your duty to interfere. It is your duty to call for help for someone who cannot do it themselves. If you hear or see signs of abuse and violence, call the police, call for help, and do anything you can to intervene and help the victims. Due to shame or fear, many people try to hide or deny their domestic violence but if you do see the signs, make sure you speak up. Offer your support so the victim knows that they’re not alone and always remember that even one word from you can make a difference so never stay silent in the face of abuse and violence.

Nonetheless, it is your business. It is your duty to interfere. It is your duty to call for help for someone who cannot do it themselves.

This women’s history month, in addition to celebrating all the women who empower us, we are also bringing attention to those who need our help.