This report synthesizes information from a rapid assessment to understand the impact of COVID-19 on violence against women and girls and service provision. The information was collected from partners—governments and civil society organizations—in 49 countries in five regions. The synthesis sheds light on the impact of COVID-19 on the availability of and accessibility to services for women and girls who experience violence, and measures taken by service providers to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls during the pandemic, despite resource and capacity constraints.
It is important to note that current reports on VAWG cases are most likely an underestimation of the real number of VAWG cases and magnitude of the problem. We know from existing data and evidence that the great majority of women survivors of violence do not report to police, helplines or other service providers. The pandemic and circumstances make it even harder for women to report or seek help.