Domestic Violence

During the pandemic, global rates of domestic violence grew exponentially. In Australia, pre-pandemic, one woman a week was killed by their partner. But since then, domestic violence has only gotten worse.

The statistics have been alarming. In Spain, the emergency number for domestic violence received 18% more calls in the first two weeks of lockdown. In the US, there was a 30% increase in aggravated domestic assaults in New York, a 27% increase in Boston and a 16% increase in Seattle. In France, reports have increased by 30%, and Singapore’s helplines had a 33% increase in calls.

But how do we solve this? Other than spreading awareness, governments need to expand helplines, fund shelters and other safe accommodation options for survivors. As quarantine has limited personal mobility, it’s important we also come up with solutions that can access people stuck at home. Italy and the UK have released or improved concealed apps through which women can seek services to avoid calling in close quarters with abusers. Some countries are tackling the causes of the violence as well. Greenland has banned alcohol sales in its capital to limit the risk of home violence as alcohol abuse has been linked to more severe violent episodes. Curtailing gun sales and limiting access to fatal weapons would certainly reduce the risk of domestic homicides. Modifications to family law and justice systems can also be a feasible solution. To allow the justice system to better respond to cases during quarantine, Australia has allowed courts to impose electronic monitoring requirements for bail and conditionally suspend imprisonment orders. They also enabled the online filing of restraining orders, created new offences, increased fines and extended limitation periods for restraining orders.