Theme: "Domestic Violence and the World of Work"

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The Campaign is focusing on the link between domestic violence (DV) and the world of work. DV disproportionately impacts women, has increased markedly. 

The UN defines domestic violence as a “pattern of behavior in any relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control.” This abuse can be emotional, psychological, financial, physical, sexual, or stalking.

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The increase in domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic has adversely impacted women in the world of work as it has become a major barrier to women’s participation in the world of work. This makes it more important than ever to prevent and develop adequate policies and institutional responses to domestic violence in all spheres.

According to the WHO, COVID-19 has increased the risk of domestic violence against women as lock downs reduced the chances of support or escape. Social distancing added to the isolation imposed by abusers, and stress and anxiety from the pandemic may have caused abusers to feel they have less control and thus trigger violence to give back that sense of power among others.