Gender-Based Violence in the Asia-Pacific Region during COVID-19: A Hidden Pandemic behind Closed Doors

Michiko Nagashima-Hayashi, Anna Durrance-Bagale, Manar Marzouk, Mengieng Ung, Sze Tung Lam, Pearlyn Neo and Natasha Howard
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Michiko Nagashima-Hayashi: Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore 117549, Singapore
Anna Durrance-Bagale: Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore 117549, Singapore
Manar Marzouk: Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore 117549, Singapore
Mengieng Ung: Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore 117549, Singapore
Sze Tung Lam: Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore 117549, Singapore
Pearlyn Neo: Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore 117549, Singapore
Natasha Howard: Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore 117549, Singapore

IJERPH, 2022, vol. 19, issue 4, 1-13

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.

Keywords: violence against women; domestic violence; gender-based violence; intimate partner violence; sexual violence; sexual and reproductive health; COVID-19; Asia-Pacific (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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