Increase in gender-based violence can be one of the early indicators and root causes of conflict. Women peacebuilders are well-equipped to address it in a gender-responsive and conflict-sensitive manner. Across many countries, they have adapted their activities to respond to the increase in GBV during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In South Africa, the Center for Study of Violence and Reconciliation, a peacebuilding organization that also provides psychosocial support to victims of gender-based violence, continued its counselling services during lockdown. They set up a toll free phone line, through which survivors of violence could reach trained counsellors, social workers and clinicians. They also established referral systems to direct victims of violence to lawyers, shelters, and other necessary series. Recognizing the emerging new threats and types of violence, women peacebuilders in Armenia have been disseminating information about cyber-security among vulnerable women. In Colombia, women’s organizations have also launched digital campaigns with educational images to create awareness about new masculinities and gender-based violence. In Ukraine, women civil society have set up a phone and text network wherein they make phone calls or send text messages to women who are vulnerable to physical, mental, and emotional abuse to let them know that support is available. A lot of times, just listening and talking to the women who are in abusive relationships already make a big difference— especially in these times of isolation.

Explore the data in the dashboard to learn more.