Systematic Review Links Infectious Disease Outbreaks to Increased Violence Against Women
A systematic review published in BMJ Global Health examines the impact of infectious disease outbreaks and public health responses on violence against women and girls (VAWG) in low- and middle-income countries. Although the study aimed to cover outbreaks since 2014, evidence predominantly focuses on the COVID-19 pandemic. The synthesis reveals a significant increase in VAWG during the first year of the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic levels. Five key mechanisms driving this violence were identified: income loss and financial insecurity, movement restrictions, reduced access to public services, fear of disease exposure, and historical mistrust in health systems. The review highlights a critical gap in data, as few studies disaggregated outcomes for women versus girls. It emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and monitoring of VAWG during health crises. The authors argue that combining short-term protective measures with long-term structural reforms is essential. These actions can break the cycle of violence exacerbated by emergencies and build resilient systems to protect women, girls, and marginalized populations before, during, and after future crises.
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Systematic Review Links Infectious Disease Outbreaks to Increased Violence Against Women
A systematic review published in BMJ Global Health examines the impact of infectious disease outbreaks and public health responses on violence against women and girls (VAWG) in low- and middle-income countries. Although the study aimed to cover outbreaks since 2014, evidence predominantly focuses on the COVID-19 pandemic. The synthesis reveals a significant increase in VAWG during the first year of the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic levels. Five key mechanisms driving this violence were identified: income loss and financial insecurity, movement restrictions, reduced access to public services, fear of disease exposure, and historical mistrust in health systems. The review highlights a critical gap in data, as few studies disaggregated outcomes for women versus girls. It emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and monitoring of VAWG during health crises. The authors argue that combining short-term protective measures with long-term structural reforms is essential. These actions can break the cycle of violence exacerbated by emergencies and build resilient systems to protect women, girls, and marginalized populations before, during, and after future crises.
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