Policy paper - GBV in Africa during COVID-19 pandemic

Since the outbreak of the Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19), emerging data and reports from those on the front lines have shown that all types of violence against women and girls (VAWG) have intensified in countries affected by the pandemic. Before the pandemic, it was estimated that one in three women will experi- ence violence during their lifetimes. Globally, 18% of ever-partnered women and girls aged 15–49 have experienced physical and/or sexual violence at the hands of a current or previous partner in the previous 12 months.1 Further, with COVID-19 there are reports of surges in violence against women (VAW) around the world being reported in many cases of upwards of 25% in countries with reporting systems in place ...