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UN Chief: Coronavirus Pressures Leading to Global Surge in Domestic Violence

Margaret Besheer

   NEW YORK - The U.N.secretary-general warned Sunday that the increase in
   social and economic pressures brought on by the coronavirus pandemic
   has led to a global increase in violence against women and girls.

   Last week, Antonio Guterres called for a global cease-fire so that the
   international community could focusall ofits attention on stopping the
   virus and helping those who have contracted it.

   "But violence is not confined to the battlefield," he said in a
   statement Sunday evening. "For many women and girls, the threat looms
   largest where they should be safest -- in their own homes. AndsoI make
   a new appeal today for peace at home -- and in homes -- around the
   world."

   Many countries have reported a surge in domestic violence incidents and
   calls to abuse hotlines since the pandemic started spreading globally
   earlier this year.

   In France, domestic violence rates surged by a third in one week. In
   South Africa, authorities received nearly 90,000 reports of violence
   against women in the first week of its lockdown. Australia's government
   says online searches for support on domestic violence have risen 75%,
   while in Turkey, activists are demanding greater protections afterthe
   killingof women rose sharply after a stay at home order was issued
   March 11.

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