Concern over rise in violence

THE increasing cases of domestic violence during this COVID-19 pandemic period across the globe is horrendous, says UNDP regional director Asia-Pacific Kanni Wingnaraja.

Responding to questions from the media during a visual news conference, Ms Wignaraja said domestic violence was a silent pandemic that thrived in homes across the globe.

Ms Wignaraja said the issue could be addressed in multiple ways, especially cases that happened in households.

“We need to look at laws that are punitive to say that we will not accept domestic violence and one has to have care services for victims for violence,” she said.

“We need to be very clear on zero tolerance for violence, it is a conundrum as old as the human race itself.”

The United Nations Women Asia Pacific had reported that one of the most striking impacts of COVID-19 was the increase in violence against women in many countries.

“In many countries in Asia and the Pacific, the number is even greater, with as many as two out of three women reporting experiences of violence in some countries,” the report stated.

“With billions of people sheltering at home, the trend is unfolding across Asia and the Pacific: violence is worsening for many women who are trapped at home with an abusive partner or family member and less able to call or go out to get help – and at a time when service providers are less available. In some countries, cases of domestic violence have risen by 30 per cent.”

The report stated the pandemic had put women at a greater risk of violence as their movements were restricted with their economic situations becoming more precarious and their protection systems weakened.