United Nations, Nov 25, : .UN Women’s new report highlights the effects of Covid-19 on women’s safety in public and at home.Almost half of women said they or a friend experienced violence during the Covid-19 pandemic.Xinhua reported that the report titled “Measuring shadow pandemic: Violence against Women during Covid-19” was based on data from 13 countries.
According to the report, about 25% of women felt less safe at home, while conflict within their households increased since the pandemic began.This was released on the eve of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (November 25).
When asked by women why they felt unsafe at their homes, 21% cited physical abuse.Some women reported that they were hurt by family members (21%), or that other women in their household were being hurt (19%).
Women felt more vulnerable to violence outside their homes.40% of respondents said they felt less safe walking alone at night since the introduction of Covid-19.Approximately 35% of women felt that sexual harassment in public places was worsened by Covid-19.
Socio-economic stress factors like financial pressure, unemployment, food security, and tense family relationships had a significant impact on women’s safety experiences (or violence) as well as their overall well-being.
Violence against women is a global crisis that thrives on other crises.In a press release, Sima Bahous, UN Women Executive Director, stated that conflict, climate-related natural catastrophes, food insecurity, and violations of human rights all contribute to women living in fear in their own homes, communities, and neighborhoods.
“The Covid-19 pandemic that forced isolation and social distancing enabled a second, shadow epidemic of violence against women, girls, and children, where they often found themselves locked down with their abusers.This data shows that concerted efforts are needed to end it.
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