Also Read - Sexual Violence: UN for holding perpetrators accountable
“Fewer than four in 10 women experiencing such violence actually report these crimes or seek help of any sort. As lockdowns and stay-at-home orders are being prolonged by countries around the world to contain the spread of COVID-19, women with violent partners increasingly find themselves isolated from the people and resources that can help them. Connecting women who are feeling fearful or in danger is critical for their safety.”
As part of the #ThereIsHelp campaign, Twitter users are also encouraged to send messages of support and let others know that services are open and available to help women experiencing violence.
One of the most striking impacts of COVID-19 has been the increased reporting of violence against women in many countries, said a media release on Saturday.
Even in “normal” times, women in the Asia and the Pacific region experience high levels of violence, with as many as 2 out of 3 women reporting experiences of violence in some countries — which is double the global average.
In some countries, cases of domestic violence have risen by 30%, said the UN Women.
With billions of people in this region sheltering at home, many women are trapped in isolation with abusive partners and unable to access life-saving resources and support systems.